James Craig, a Colorado-based dentist, has been sentenced to life in prison without parole after being found guilty of murdering his wife with cyanide. But the chilling details don't end there. During trial proceedings, it emerged that Craig allegedly tried to frame his wife using a deepfake video, adding a disturbing digital twist to an already harrowing case of betrayal and premeditation.
James Craig, 47, a licensed dentist from Aurora, Colorado, was convicted of first-degree murder in the death of his wife, Angela Craig. According to CBS News, he was also found guilty of multiple related charges, including two counts of solicitation to commit tampering with physical evidence, two counts of solicitation to commit first-degree perjury, and solicitation to commit first-degree murder.
The verdict was delivered by an Arapahoe County jury on 30 July 2025. Under Colorado law, the judge imposed a mandatory life sentence without the possibility of parole.
The case has drawn national attention due to its chilling blend of digital manipulation, toxic substances, and domestic betrayal.
Timeline of the Poisoning Plot
Angela Craig was hospitalised several times in March 2023, suffering from what appeared to be unexplained symptoms like dizziness, vomiting and fainting. During the investigation, it was revealed that James Craig had poisoned her protein shakes with arsenic and later administered a fatal dose of cyanide while she was in hospital.
Toxicology reports confirmed the presence of cyanide, arsenic and tetrahydrozoline, a chemical commonly found in eye drops and nasal sprays. According to KCRA, investigators also uncovered internet searches from Craig's dental office, including phrases like 'how to make murder look like a heart attack' and a dosage of tetrahydrozoline that is fatal.'
The Deepfake Plot: Craig's Attempt to Shift Blame
A disturbing twist emerged during the trial. Prosecutors presented evidence that Craig allegedly asked one of his children to help create a deepfake video that would portray Angela requesting poison, implying she had suicidal intentions.
The video, intended to mislead investigators and the jury, was never successfully completed but was cited as part of the extensive digital cover-up Craig orchestrated. The defence claimed Angela had taken her own life, but this narrative was rejected by the jury in light of the evidence.
Cover-Up Efforts Extended Beyond the Video
In addition to the attempted use of a deepfake, Craig engaged in multiple efforts to obstruct justice. Testimony revealed he tried to hire fellow inmates to murder the case's lead investigator, he also allegedly sent letters to an inmate's ex-wife to find people who can submit false statements to the court.
He also attempted to delete incriminating emails and web history, actions that were uncovered during forensic analysis of devices at his home and dental office.
Courtroom Impact and Sentencing Outcome
During sentencing, members of Angela Craig's family gave emotional statements. One of the couple's daughters said, 'I was supposed to be able to trust my dad; he was supposed to be my hero, and instead he'll forever be the villain in my book.' Another added, 'It's hard to lose your mom and then your dad three days later.'
The judge handed down the life sentence as required by law for first-degree murder, citing Craig's calculated actions and lack of remorse. The conviction and sentencing of James Craig mark one of the most high-profile cases in recent Colorado history, not only for the nature of the crime but also for the use of emerging technologies in the cover-up.
Originally published on IBTimes UK
