BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The murder trial of Natalie Cochran began with dramatic opening statements on Monday, as prosecutors alleged she poisoned her husband, Michael Cochran, with insulin to prevent him from uncovering her Ponzi scheme. Defense attorneys countered, admitting Natalie’s fraudulent activities but insisting she is not guilty of murder.
Prosecutor’s Case: Insulin Poisoning and Financial Crimes
Prosecutor Tom Truman opened the state’s case by asserting that Natalie Cochran, a pharmacist convicted of orchestrating a multi-million-dollar Ponzi scheme, killed her husband to conceal her crimes. Truman alleged Natalie used insulin to poison Michael before he could discover their government contract business, Tactical Solutions Group (TSG), was a fraud that had deceived friends and family.
Defense Strategy: Michael’s Health and Joint Involvement in the Scheme
Defense attorney Matthew Victor responded by acknowledging Natalie’s role as “a fraud and a cheat” but rejecting the murder accusation. He argued Michael was aware of the fraudulent business and was deeply involved, noting that PO boxes tied to TSG were registered in his name and that he received deposits from his parents. Victor also described Michael as “a time bomb,” with poor health attributed to steroids and questionable supplements.
Witness Testimony
The prosecution called several witnesses to support their case:
- Robert Hinzman: A former West Virginia State Trooper who investigated the Ponzi scheme. He testified that Natalie used her company to solicit investments under the guise of securing federal supply contracts, which never existed. Instead, she used new investments to pay earlier investors. During cross-examination, the defense highlighted Michael’s involvement, suggesting he played a significant role in the scheme.
- Jennifer Davis: Natalie’s neighbor and friend testified that Natalie messaged her on February 6, 2019, stating that both she and Michael were sick and requesting insulin to help with her cancer. Davis delivered insulin and later received a photo of Michael lying on the floor. She recalled Natalie asking her to assist in holding a pillow over Michael’s face, saying, “I don’t like seeing him this way.”
- John Hamilton: A family friend and state trooper testified that Natalie called him to check on Michael. While Hamilton recommended hospital transport, Natalie insisted Michael should “sleep it off.”
Jury Complications
The trial faced an early hiccup when one juror failed to appear, citing personal challenges, including unreliable transportation and caregiving responsibilities for a special-needs child. The juror also admitted to discussing the trial despite explicit instructions not to. While the judge considered citing her for contempt, he ultimately decided against it.
A Case That Combines Fraud and Alleged Murder
The trial promises to delve deep into the Cochrans’ lives, their fraudulent business, and the circumstances surrounding Michael’s death. Prosecutors aim to prove Natalie used her pharmaceutical knowledge to commit murder, while the defense argues Michael’s health and alleged complicity in the Ponzi scheme cast doubt on the prosecution’s case.
The trial is expected to last four weeks, with expert witnesses and family members slated to testify. Proceedings are being broadcast live on Court TV and streamed on Lootpress.com.
