The murder trial of a Colorado dentist accused of poisoning his wife has been postponed after his defense attorney unexpectedly withdrew during jury selection.
FOX News Digital reports that Angela Craig, a 43-year-old mother of six, died in March 2023 from poisoning with cyanide and tetrahydrozoline, a substance commonly found in over-the-counter eye drops.
James Craig was charged with her murder.
As CrimeOnline previously reported, the trial, which had already been postponed, was scheduled to begin Thursday. However, on the morning of the trial, the defense team requested to withdraw from the case, citing a “professional conflict,” according to the 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office.
The judge granted the defense’s request to withdraw under the Rule of Professional Conduct, and Craig opted against representing himself, causing another delay in the case.
As CrimeOnline previously reported, an arrest affidavit stated Craig flew his orthodontist lover from Austin to Denver while his wife was dying and that they exchanged sexually explicit emails.
Craig faces charges of first-degree murder and solicitation to commit tampering with physical evidence. He pled not guilty.
Craig allegedly ordered a rush shipment of potassium cyanide even though it was not needed. He also allegedly researched multiple “undetectable poisons” and purchased some, according to KDVR.
The 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office announced that an Appearance of Counsel Hearing is set for December 16 at 8:30 a.m.
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[Feature Photo: Craig couple/Facebook}