Ohio Woman Receives Four Life Sentences for Fentanyl Murders During Robberies
A judge in Ohio has handed down a severe sentence to a woman convicted of using fentanyl to kill four men in a series of attempted robberies. Rebecca Auborn, aged 36 and from Columbus, was given four consecutive life sentences, with the possibility of parole after 60 years, following her guilty plea to the charges.
Details of the Case and Sentencing
The sentencing occurred on Thursday, with Franklin County Judge imposing the terms after Auborn changed her plea from not guilty to guilty late last year. Each life sentence carries a parole eligibility after 15 years, meaning she must serve at least 60 years before being considered for release. Additionally, Auborn pleaded guilty to one count of felonious assault related to an attempted overdose of another man, as confirmed by Ohio Attorney General David Yost in a statement.
Yost emphasized the gravity of the crimes, stating, "This sentence reflects the defendant’s disregard for life and the callousness not only to kill, but to do it repeatedly." He expressed sympathy for the victims' families, adding, "My heart goes out to the families who lost a loved one - I pray that this measure of justice brings them closure and peace."
Background and Investigation
The case dates back to 2023 when Auborn was indicted following accusations that she met men for sex before administering fatal doses of fentanyl. Authorities reported that the crimes all took place in 2022 and 2023. The investigation was initiated after the Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force received tips about a sex worker allegedly drugging men with the intent to steal their belongings.
Key aspects of the case include:
- Auborn's initial not guilty plea was changed to guilty in late 2025.
- The four murders were part of a robbery scheme targeting the victims.
- Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, was used as the lethal substance in the attacks.
- The felonious assault charge involved an attempted overdose that did not result in death.
This sentencing underscores the severe legal consequences for drug-related homicides and highlights ongoing efforts to combat such crimes in Ohio. The case has drawn attention to the dangers of fentanyl misuse and the tragic outcomes when it is weaponized in criminal activities.
