BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The murder trial of Natalie Cochran, a former pharmacist convicted of operating a multimillion-dollar Ponzi scheme, continues into its fourth day. Cochran, who is serving a federal prison sentence for wire fraud, now faces first-degree murder charges in the 2019 death of her husband, Michael Cochran. Prosecutors allege she poisoned him with insulin to prevent him from discovering the fraudulent nature of their business.
Day 1: Opening Statements and Early Testimony
Prosecutors laid out their case, accusing Natalie Cochran of murdering her husband to conceal her Ponzi scheme, which defrauded friends and family of millions, including Michael’s parents. The defense countered by admitting Natalie’s financial crimes but argued that Michael’s death resulted from his own poor health, allegedly exacerbated by steroid abuse.
Key witnesses included:
- Robert Hinzmen, a former state trooper, who detailed Natalie’s fraudulent business practices.
- Jennifer Davis, a neighbor, who testified about Natalie’s request for insulin days before Michael’s collapse and a disturbing comment about “helping” Michael with a pillow.
- John Hamilton, a family friend, who recalled finding Michael unresponsive but being dismissed by Natalie when he suggested hospital care.
Day 2: Testimony on Michael’s Health and Final Days
The court heard about Michael’s declining health in early February 2019, including his collapse on February 6. Witnesses provided conflicting accounts of Michael’s condition and Natalie’s refusal to seek medical care:
- Stephanie Hamilton, a friend and physician’s assistant, testified about Natalie’s request for a steroid injection two days before Michael’s collapse.
- Christopher Davis, a close friend, recounted seeing Michael excited about a business trip days before his sudden illness. He contradicted the defense’s claims that Michael was chronically unwell.
The prosecution presented evidence that Michael was taken to the hospital only after repeated urging by friends. He died days later in hospice care.
Day 3: Evidence of Poisoning?
The trial turned to potential poisoning as:
- Jason Bowen, a contractor, testified about finding Michael unresponsive on the kitchen floor on February 6. Bowen said Natalie dismissed suggestions to seek medical help.
- Joseph Stephens, an FBI chemist, analyzed three liquid bottles recovered from the Cochran home. Two matched their labels, but a third contained an unidentified substance. The defense argued none of the bottles were conclusively linked to Michael’s death.
What’s Next?
As Day 4 begins, the trial continues to explore the circumstances of Michael’s death and Natalie’s alleged involvement. The prosecution is expected to introduce more forensic evidence and testimony to strengthen its case.
For live coverage, follow the trial via CourtTV on Lootpress.com.
