NEW CANAAN, Connecticut – Day 2 of Michelle Troconis’ trial shed light on the early days of the investigation into the disappearance and presumed murder of Jennifer Dulos. Connecticut State Police Sergeant Jamie Pearston took the stand as the first witness, providing insight into the mapping and sketching of the crime scene by state police investigators.
Pearston explained the importance of memorializing the location of evidence through detailed sketches. These sketches included markings for spots where investigators believed they had found a blood-like substance. However, the trial faced a delay as defense attorney Jon Schoenhorn argued against introducing testimony that indicated the blood-like substances had tested positive for blood in field tests.
Schoenhorn contended that the field tests were inconclusive, as substances other than blood can also yield positive results. He referred to such field tests as “junk science” and objected to their use. After deliberation, the judge allowed the witness to testify about the field tests, but it consumed a considerable part of the afternoon to admit evidence of the test results.
The judge concluded the day by dismissing the jury and state prosecutors previewing the upcoming testimony of retired state police detective Matthew Reilly. Reilly mentioned conducting a test with a hydrogen peroxide substance, which yielded an immediate positive result. The judge deferred a decision on whether this testimony would be heard by the jury, leaving it to be addressed when the trial resumed.
The trial will continue on Tuesday, Jan. 16, where Reilly’s testimony is expected to pick up. The jury will hear evidence and details crucial to the investigation into the disappearance and presumed murder of Jennifer Dulos.
In summary, the trial of Michelle Troconis provides insights into the early days of the investigation, including the mapping and sketching of the crime scene. The defense’s objection to the use of field tests and the subsequent admission of test results added complexity to the proceedings. The upcoming testimony of Matthew Reilly will shed further light on the case, providing important evidence for the jury’s consideration.