The murder trial of James Toliver Craig, a Colorado dentist accused of poisoning his wife, Angela, has hit another roadblock. Just as jury selection was about to begin, Craig’s defense attorney suddenly quit the case, leaving everything on pause.
Craig, 45, is accused of mixing poison into his wife’s protein shakes, leading to her death in March 2023. Angela, a 43-year-old mom of six, was married to Craig for 23 years. According to the coroner, she was poisoned with cyanide and tetrahydrozoline, a chemical found in eye drops.
This trial has already faced delays, and Thursday was supposed to be the start of jury selection. But in a surprising twist, Craig’s lawyer stepped away, citing a “professional conflict.” The judge agreed to let the attorney withdraw, and since Craig declined to represent himself, the trial is now delayed again.
The case has shocked many with its disturbing details. Authorities claim Craig had a secret affair and even flew his orthodontist girlfriend from Texas to Denver while his wife was gravely ill. The two allegedly exchanged explicit emails during this time, adding to the drama.
Investigators describe a deeply troubled marriage. Craig’s alleged actions suggest a chilling premeditated plan. According to the arrest affidavit, he created a secret email account—jimandwaffles.com—to search for things like “how to make poison” and “how to make murder look like a heart attack.” Police say he ordered potassium cyanide online just before Angela began experiencing strange symptoms like vertigo and cold lips. Doctors couldn’t figure out what was wrong.
Angela’s sister, Toni Kofoed, told police this wasn’t the first time Craig had drugged his wife. She claimed that five years earlier, he drugged Angela, saying it was part of a failed suicide plan. Toni also revealed that Craig had multiple affairs, a long history of porn addiction, and a gambling problem. Angela had reportedly considered leaving him for years, but he always convinced her to stay.
Adding to the chaos, Craig was accused earlier this year of trying to fake evidence. Police say he asked a fellow inmate to plant letters in his garage and truck to make it seem like Angela was suicidal. The inmate didn’t follow through and instead reported Craig to authorities.
Craig, already facing charges of first-degree murder, has pleaded not guilty. His next court appearance is set for December 16. Meanwhile, the shocking twists and turns in this case continue to keep everyone on edge.
