STAMFORD, Conn. – The fate of Michelle Troconis, the defendant in the high-profile criminal trial, now lies in the hands of the jury. After hearing the prosecution’s closing arguments, the jurors must determine whether the evidence presented proves Troconis’ guilt or if her involvement in the alleged crimes was mere coincidence.
The state alleges that Troconis conspired with her former boyfriend, Fotis Dulos, to kill his estranged wife, Jennifer Farber Dulos, who went missing in May 2019. They claim that Troconis aided Dulos in the murder plot and helped dispose of evidence related to the crimes during a contentious divorce and custody battle.
During closing arguments, prosecutor Sean McGuinness highlighted 30 instances that he deemed as evidence of Troconis’ involvement in the crimes and cover-up. He repeatedly posed the question to the jury, “Is it just a coincidence?” Assistant Supervisory State’s Attorney Michelle Manning also emphasized parts of Troconis’ interviews with investigators where her story appeared inconsistent or misleading.
In her defense, Troconis’ lawyer, Jon Schoenhorn, argued that his client had no knowledge of Dulos’ plans or her involvement in the cover-up. He claimed that the state’s case relied on speculation and unfair assumptions based on Troconis’ romantic relationship with Dulos.
The trial, which lasted 25 days, marked the first time the jury heard all the evidence tied together. The jurors were tasked with considering each of the six counts individually, including conspiracy to commit murder, tampering with evidence, conspiracy to tamper with evidence, and hindering the prosecution.
Judge Kevin A. Randolph provided the jurors with detailed instructions on each charge, outlining the elements the state needed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt for a guilty verdict.
Following the closing arguments, the six-person jury began deliberations on Tuesday afternoon and resumed on Wednesday morning. They have full access to all the evidence presented during the trial, including Troconis’ interviews with police. However, if they want to review any trial testimony, they must do so in the courtroom.
While the jury deliberates, Troconis’ friends Clara “Petu” Duperron testified for the defense. Duperron discussed her friendship with Troconis and the time they spent together, mentioning that Troconis often lit fires at 4 Jefferson Crossing, regardless of the weather. She stated that Troconis never mentioned being in Hartford or cleaning at another location on the day of Jennifer’s disappearance.
The outcome of this closely watched trial remains uncertain, as the jury will determine whether the evidence presented proves Troconis’ guilt or if her involvement in the alleged crimes was merely a series of coincidences.