Indian-origin man arrested in US for plotting to kill his wife

An Indian-American, Darshan R Soni, has been arrested and charged with attempted murder and conspiracy to commit murder after allegedly plotting to kill his wife in a plan that spanned months and included a failed poisoning attempt, a murder-for-hire scheme, and efforts to cover his tracks.

According to a probable cause affidavit filed in Hamilton County in Indians, Soni, 44, asked one of his employees, Ken Cox, to help carry out the murder. The plan allegedly involved poisoning his wife and, when that failed, staging a break-in at their home on May 16, 2025, during which the murder was to occur.

The case unfolded after a tipster alerted authorities about Soni’s intentions. The tipster claimed Soni had previously asked them how to obtain a silencer and spoke about committing additional crimes. They also reported seeing Soni pick up a wig from Cox, presumably for use as a disguise.

Cox eventually cooperated with police after seeking legal counsel and admitted Soni had offered him money and a used car—a silver Ford Escape—to assist with the murder and help create an alibi by carrying Soni’s phone elsewhere.

Further investigation revealed disturbing details, as per court documents.

The victim reported odd-tasting smoothies and health issues in recent months. She recalled finding a white clumpy substance in her drink, which Soni dismissed as dish detergent.

Cox later confirmed Soni claimed to have ordered poison, possibly Thallium or Valium, from India, though Soni said it was ineffective.

Under police surveillance, Cox wore a wire during a meeting with Soni on May 15.

During the recorded conversation, Soni appeared to walk back the plot, crediting Cox for talking him “off a ledge.” However, he also discussed philosophies around violence, detailed murder plots he had read about, and hinted that he still considered extreme actions before deciding on divorce.

Soni’s arrest follows a coordinated effort between Carmel police and the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office. He is charged with one count of attempted murder, a Level 1 felony, and one count of conspiracy to commit murder, a Level 2 felony. He is scheduled to make a court appearance on May 22.

The victim, who remains unnamed, has since been notified and provided support resources. Family members have expressed disbelief, with the victim reportedly describing Soni as innocent.

(Courtesy: www.5wh.com)