A judge in the trial of Michelle Troconis, a Connecticut woman accused of assisting her boyfriend in covering up the murder of his wife, has dismissed a juror for comparing the case to the plot of Gone Girl. The anonymous juror made the comment, referencing the popular novel and film, in the presence of other members of the jury. Judge Kevin Randolph received an unsigned note from a juror detailing the incident, prompting him to clear the courtroom and question the jurors. The dismissed juror, known as Juror 186, admitted to making the comparison. Despite this incident, the trial will continue with a reassembled jury.
Troconis is facing charges of conspiracy to commit murder and other crimes for allegedly assisting her then-boyfriend, Fotis Dulos, in concealing the murder of his estranged wife, Jennifer Dulos, in 2019. Troconis has pleaded not guilty and denied any involvement in the crime. The prosecution claims that Fotis Dulos attacked Jennifer in her New Canaan home’s garage and drove away with her body, which has never been found. Fotis Dulos died by suicide in early 2020 after being charged with murder.
During Friday’s testimony, the court focused on examining evidence related to possible blood stains in Jennifer Dulos’ garage. Jennifer and Fotis Dulos were in the midst of a contentious divorce and custody battle at the time of her disappearance, which limited his access to their children. Fotis Dulos lived with Troconis and her daughter in the family home.
This case has garnered significant media attention and even inspired a made-for-TV movie called Gone Mom. Jennifer Dulos, a member of a wealthy New York family, was related by marriage to fashion designer Liz Claiborne, and Fotis Dulos was a luxury home builder from Greece.
Notably, this is the second incident of alleged juror misconduct in the trial. Earlier in the week, an alternate juror was dismissed after expressing support for the prosecution during a lunch break. Despite these disruptions, the trial continues with three alternates and six regular jurors.
The trial will proceed as planned, with the court aiming to provide a fair and impartial trial for both the state and the defense. The case has captivated public interest and remains a significant topic of conversation. As the trial continues, the focus will be on uncovering the truth behind Jennifer Dulos’ tragic disappearance and holding those responsible accountable for their alleged actions.
