A trial has been authorized for an Ohio sex worker accused of causing the deaths of four individuals and attempting to harm a fifth through the administration of fatal drugs. After undergoing an evaluation, Rebecca Auborn, 34, has been deemed fit to stand trial, as stated by Franklin County Court of Common Pleas Judge Karen Phipps in an order issued on Thursday. The judge affirmed that Auborn comprehends the nature and objectives of the legal proceedings and can actively participate in her defense. The scheduling of a trial date is not yet confirmed.
Charged in October 2023, Auborn faces indictment for nearly 30 offenses, including multiple counts of murder, aggravated robbery, and felonious assault, as outlined in a copy of the indictment. Despite the charges, Auborn has entered a plea of not guilty. Her legal representative has not provided any immediate response to inquiries made on Monday.
Christyn Crockett, daughter of the purported victim Wayne Akin, 64, expressed relief following the ruling, anticipating a fair trial to commence soon. “None of us will be able to find peace until this matter is fully resolved,” she conveyed during an interview on Monday. “Nevertheless, this marks a positive step forward.”
A competency examination was mandated by the judge in June, subsequent to a request made by Auborn’s attorney, according to court documents. The evaluation was conducted by a forensic examiner based in Columbus.
Allegations put forth by authorities suggest that between January and June 2023, Auborn engaged in sexual encounters with four individuals in the Columbus area, subsequently administering fatal doses of fentanyl and robbing the victims. Additionally, Auborn stands accused of felonious assault and aggravated robbery in connection with the attempted overdose of a fifth individual in December, as detailed in the indictment.
Autopsy reports provided by the Franklin County Coroner’s Office identify the alleged victims who succumbed to drug overdoses as Robert Snoke, 54; Joseph Crumpler, 30; and Guy Renda Jr., 42, in addition to Wayne Akin.
