A North Carolina man, Joshua Hunsucker, has pleaded not guilty in the death of his wife, Stacy Hunsucker, as prosecutors prepare for a trial later this year.
Allegations of Poisoning for Insurance Money
Prosecutors allege that Hunsucker intentionally poisoned his wife in 2018 using tetrahydrozoline, a substance commonly found in eye drops. They believe the motive was financial, claiming he was trying to collect more than $200,000 in life insurance.
At the time, Stacy’s death was initially believed to be from natural causes. However, preserved blood samples were later tested, and the substance was found in her system, leading to the murder charge.
Arrest and Early Developments
Hunsucker was arrested in December 2019 and later released after posting a $1.5 million bond. A judge also issued a restraining order preventing him from accessing any insurance money while allowing Stacy’s estate to recover assets.
Additional Charges and Alleged Behavior
The case has grown more complex over time. In 2021, Hunsucker was charged with burning personal property after he allegedly set fire to a syringe pump while working as a paramedic on a medical helicopter.
In 2023, while out on bond, he claimed his former in-laws were harassing him. Prosecutors say he staged his own kidnapping by tying himself up with zip ties and falsely accusing them of abducting and injecting him. Authorities also allege he spent years following and recording his former in-laws.
Allegations Involving His Daughter
Investigators have also accused Hunsucker of poisoning his daughter using the same substance allegedly used in his wife’s death. The child became seriously ill and was hospitalized but later recovered.
These developments led to additional charges, including multiple counts of witness intimidation and obstruction of justice. Hunsucker has pleaded not guilty to all of them, but a judge revoked his bond, sending him back to jail.
Request to Move the Trial
Hunsucker has filed a motion to move the trial to another location, arguing that widespread media coverage could impact his ability to receive a fair trial. A similar request made in 2021 was denied.
The case is currently expected to go to trial in September 2026.
