Iowa Woman Charged with Murdering Husband Faces Life in Prison

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (Court TV) — An Iowa woman could spend life in prison without parole if she is convicted of murdering her husband. Karina Cooper was charged with first-degree murder in February 2024, after her husband, Ryan Cooper, was found dead with two gunshot wounds to his face at their home in Traer on June 28, 2021.

According to an affidavit, a deputy discovered Ryan Cooper’s body in a recliner, with his wife sitting on top of him. Their three children were also present in the home at the time of the incident. Although deputies did not find a gun at the scene, they recovered a .22 shell casing.

The case remained unsolved for nearly three years until police arrested Karina. Along with her, Huston Danker was also charged with first-degree murder for allegedly ‘acting in concert’ with her. Danker’s trial is set for August, but authorities have not disclosed the nature of his connection to Karina.

Further details from the affidavit reveal that Karina allegedly told two witnesses she wanted Ryan dead and mentioned she could shoot him in the face. The investigation involved multiple search warrants and interviews.

Opening statements in Karina Cooper’s trial are scheduled for July 2, 2024.