About this transcript: This is a full AI-generated transcript of Sentencing: Michelle Troconis — Missing Mom Conspiracy Trial from COURT TV, published October 18, 2026. The transcript contains 34,793 words with timestamps and was generated using Whisper AI.
"We're at a monitor. Are we on the record? We are on the record. This is the matter of State of Connecticut versus Michelle Draconis. May the Court have the appearances of the parties, please. Good morning, Your Honor. Michelle Manning for the State. Your Honor, good morning, and may it please the..."
[00:00:00] Speaker 1: We're at a monitor. Are we on the record?
[00:00:09] Speaker 2: We are on the record.
[00:00:30] Speaker 1: This is the matter of State of Connecticut versus Michelle Draconis. May the Court have the appearances of the parties, please.
[00:00:43] Speaker 3: Good morning, Your Honor. Michelle Manning for the State.
[00:00:46] Speaker 4: Your Honor, good morning, and may it please the Court, Sean McGinnis for the State. For the record, John Schoenheim representing Mr. Draconis. I note, could I ask that the handcuffs be removed, please?
[00:00:55] Speaker ?: Granted.
[00:01:00] Speaker 5: Your Honor, good morning. The interpreters would just like to request that if anybody will be reading anything today, whether they be letters or other documents, if they speak at a moderate pace, if you tend to speak a lot faster, would we read?
[00:01:12] Speaker 1: Thank you. The Court will first explain how it intends to proceed today. The pre-sentence investigation report has been delivered to the court. Presumably, it has been delivered to counsel.
[00:01:42] Speaker ?: Yes.
[00:01:50] Speaker 6: The Court will first explain how it is.
[00:01:51] Speaker ?: The Court will first explain how it is.
[00:01:51] Speaker 6: The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is.
[00:01:54] Speaker ?: The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is.
[00:02:22] Speaker 1: The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is.
[00:02:25] Speaker ?: The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is.
[00:03:50] Speaker 1: The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is.
[00:03:55] Speaker ?: The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will second explain how it is.
[00:03:57] Speaker 1: The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is.
[00:04:05] Speaker ?: The Court will first explain how it is.
[00:04:06] Speaker 1: The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is.
[00:04:09] Speaker ?: The Court will first explain how it is.
[00:04:10] Speaker 1: The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is.
[00:04:19] Speaker ?: The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is.
[00:04:21] Speaker 1: The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. The Court will first explain how it is. And, of course, the defendant's right to allocution. The Court will then deliver its remarks. The session this morning will run for as long as it needs to prior to 1:30. So rather than have a recess at 1:00, we will take the recess at 1:30 and resume at 2:30 if there is an afternoon session. The Court, on a previous occasion, indicated to Council that it would delay ruling on certain motions until this morning. The Court is going to give Council an opportunity, a very brief opportunity, to reiterate its arguments concerning whether or not the Court should vacate any of the conspiracy convictions, other than the conspiracy to commit murder convictions. So the Court first will hear briefly, because the Court has copies of written memoranda from both sides. Thank you, Your Honor.
[00:05:53] Speaker 4: Again, I'm not going to reiterate, I cited to the Court some examples. Yesterday afternoon, the State filed a memorandum. I'm just going to briefly address a couple of points. First of all, in my opinion, the State incorrectly cites the law of the case doctrine as being relevant here. As I understand the law of the case doctrine applies to a ruling by a coordinate or different judge. It never precludes a judge who's considering a matter to reconsider that matter. So that simply does not apply. And with regard to the Ellison case, that's cited at footnote one of the State's memorandum. I will just note, I read that last night. Not only is it not controlling, I would submit it's irrelevant. In that case, there were two separate agreements among gang members, one to beat up a third party, and the other to have sex with a 14-year-old girl. And they said clearly that was two separate conspiracies. They were not the same. That's the only case the State cites. I know I cited cases that deal directly with issues such as murder, other violent crimes, and then efforts to cover it up. And every one of those cases says that unless there was a federal case where it was months later, that that's part of the same conspiracy. Therefore, based on that, I asked the court to find that there was only one conspiracy and issue vacator, vacator however it's pronounced, to vacate the other two conspiracy counts. Thank you. Thank you.
[00:07:35] Speaker ?: Counselor.
[00:07:36] Speaker 7: Yes, Your Honor, good morning. Firstly, I'll just note that I think that the defense's supplemental authority is once again asking the court for the same relief that the court has already denied. It's my understanding, Your Honor, from our last hearing, and the court obviously can correct me if I'm wrong, but the court indicated that at least one of the conspiracy to commit tampering with physical evidence charges would stand. The issue was whether there was one agreement to tamper with evidence or multiple agreements, as I understood the court's ruling from April 10th. So my objection is essentially that they are asking for relief that has already been denied. Now, whether or not the law of the case doctrine only applies to coordinate judges, I have not been provided with a case that stands for that proposition, but I'll note that the defense did not file a motion for reconsideration. So if we're going to get technical, there was never a motion for reconsideration filed, so the court can deny this motion on that basis. But I'll just note, Your Honor, that under Ellison, it's very clear the factors that this court has to apply when the defense indicates that that case is irrelevant, but that the hearsay cases that they cited somehow are controlling. I'm flummoxed by that argument because it's readily apparent, Your Honor, from our case law, if you look at Ellison, you look at Brown and some of the other cases that have addressed this issue, that the factors which are laid out in Ellison, which incidentally come from the Second Circuit case law, are controlling for determining whether or not there can be multiple conspiracies. Now, with respect to the merits of whether or not there can be more than one conspiracy to tamper with evidence, it's the state's position, and we argued this extensively at the April 10th hearing, that there was sufficient evidence for the jury to find that there was multiple conspiracies, not the least of which is there was five days of separation between the two allegations of conspiracy. They took place in different towns. They had different objectives. One was to clean the vehicle at a car wash. The other was to dispose of clothing and other potential instruments such as zip ties and things like that in the Hartford area, etc. So I don't want to rehash the argument that I made on April 10th, but I would ask the court to deny the defense's motion again.
[00:10:00] Speaker 1: Thank you. The court gave counsel an indication as to what its preliminary views were on the charging of three conspiracies, one count of conspiracy to commit murder and two counts of conspiracy to tamper with physical evidence. The court will now elaborate on its preliminary view. In the United States v. Jergensen, that's a 2019 trial case in the Northern District of New York, the court held that acts of concealment that are undertaken for the purpose only of covering up the criminal conspiracy after its central objectives are completed, do not extend the duration of the conspiracy. In other words, the original conspiracy does not contemplate every act that is subsequent for which there is an agreement. Now that case cites Gruenwald v. United States, the United States Supreme Court case, 353 U.S. 391 at 405, a 1957 case. Now this court finds that there can be a conviction on only one count of conspiracy to commit tampering with physical evidence. It follows only one lawful agreement. It follows only one unlawful agreement. State v. Lee, a Connecticut Supreme Court case, 325 Connecticut 339 at 343, a 2017 case, the Supreme Court held that the proper remedy when a defendant is convicted of two counts of conspiracy, arising from the same unlawful agreement arising from the same unlawful agreement in violation of double jeopardy as a vacator of one of those conspiracy convictions. Therefore, this court vacates the conviction on count four of the information. Conspiracy to commit tampering with physical evidence. The remaining conspiracy counts are conspiracy to commit murder and one count of conspiracy to tamper with physical evidence. And the court does not find persuasive the argument that a conviction on conspiracy to commit murder and conspiracy to tamper with physical evidence violates double jeopardy. The double jeopardy clause of the United States Constitution contemplates three general categories. A subsequent conviction after rather a subsequent acquittal and then a retrial on the same facts, a conviction and then a retrial on the same facts or multiple punishments for the same offense. This case contemplates multiple punishments for the same offense because the court has determined that only one conspiracy to commit tampering with physical evidence can stand. The central purposes of the murder conspiracy concluded with the death of Jennifer Dulos. The conspiracy to conceal evidence of the murder is a separate conspiracy.
[00:13:33] Speaker 7: Judge, just to button up the record, Your Honor, may the state pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes 5496 just ask for permission to appeal the court's ruling. I'm not saying we're going to, but just to button up the record so no one says we didn't ask. Yes.
[00:13:51] Speaker 1: Thank you. Moving to the pre-sentence investigation report before we return to counsel court notes that there are. At least two matters that the court has to address. On the second page. The charges of the case. The office of adult probation includes. The following statute 53a-48, 53a-48 and 53a-54a. And indicates that the penalty for conspiracy to commit murder is 25 years, essentially minimum, not more than 60 years. That's incorrect. The inchoate offense of conspiracy in charging a class A felony becomes a class B felony. The maximum penalty is 20 years. In addition, the court would just indicate, starting on page three, current offenses, essentially is a recitation of the facts leading to the investigation and the finding of probable cause. These facts are not taken from the facts induced at trial. They're taken from warrant affidavits and police reports in the course of the investigation. Senator Schoenhorn, you may be heard.
[00:15:36] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:15:37] Speaker 4: That was going to be my, what the caller just indicated was going to be my first remark. That these, the so-called offense conduct is taken from police reports and warrants. To a certain extent, they are not what the evidence showed at trial. But there's only a few that matter that I'm going to bring to the court's attention. Senator Schoenhorn: First is on page four, where it states that, um, um, that with regard to the, uh, the, uh, timelines, which, uh, were pejoratively referred to by the police's alibi scripts. Senator Schoenhorn: Uh, it states that the, uh, the two were, uh, drafted, quote, together, that they authored it together. That's the way, I mean, the exact quote is, an account of 5/24/2019 and 5/25/2019, which Fotis, Doulis, and Traconis together had authorized, had authored. Senator Schoenhorn: Um, I'll just submit that the only evidence at trial was that they were done separately, that the first time Mr. Conis saw the version that Mr. Doulos prepared was during the interview. So it asked that that be, uh, corrected because it's not the evidence that was either presented or came from the, uh, remarks of Mr. Conis during the, uh, the interview. Senator Schoenhorn: The, uh, other portion, which was of some discussion and cross-examination, made clear, is on page six. And again, this, this was from the, uh, police warrant. It stated that Mr. Conis stated that the paper towel that was handed to her by Mr. Doulos, it says, quote, here it says, "It was brown in color and did not smell like coffee," quote, unquote. Senator Schoenhorn: The undisputed evidence is that it, she says, "I didn't smell it." And in the video, she indicates by pulling it up that she never even smelled. She was handed it and placed it in a garbage bag. So again, that was something that was, uh, I argued even was misleading in a motion to dismiss or a motion to suppress. Senator Schoenhorn: But in any event, it shouldn't be in here because it's not what the testimony was at trial. Senator Schoenhorn: Um, I also am not certain at the last sentence on the bottom of page six, into the top of page seven, Senator Schoenhorn: it states that the timing that Mr. Conis, quote, "provided to investigators" was not corroborated by the cellular data of Senator Schoenhorn: of Traconis and Fotis' cell phone. Senator Schoenhorn: Well, first of all, uh, Mr. Conis' cell phone data was not introduced during the trial. Senator Schoenhorn: But even from the motions to suppress where it was raised and Mr. Doulos' cell phone, Senator Schoenhorn: it did corroborate what she said about going back and forth between 80 Mountain Spring Road Senator Schoenhorn: and Fort Jefferson Crossing. Senator Schoenhorn: So I don't even know where that statement comes from. Senator Schoenhorn: It might be in one of the reports, but I indicate that's contrary to what the evidence was at trial. Senator Schoenhorn: On page seven in the paragraph, the third paragraph, the one that begins with the word detectives, Senator Schoenhorn: it states here that, uh, that detectives reported that on 5/29/2019, Fotis, Doulos, and Traconis Senator Schoenhorn: together shuttled Gumieni's Toyota Tacoma pickup to Russell Speeder's car wash. Senator Schoenhorn: That is, again, the opposite of what the testimony and the evidence showed. Senator Schoenhorn: What the most one could say is Mr. Doulos drove the Tacoma and Mr. Doulos drove the Tacoma Senator Schoenhorn: and Mr. Konis drove a Yukon vehicle, followed, and that Mr. Doulos brought the vehicle into the car wash Senator Schoenhorn: and paid for the car wash, and Mr. Konis and Mr. Doulos went to see the lawyer. Senator Schoenhorn: There was an appointment with Mr. Konis's lawyer. It was the first appointment in Westport with Attorney Bowman. Senator Schoenhorn: So I submit that that statement, again, is inaccurate, and I ask that it be corrected. Senator Schoenhorn: As far as the -- you know, I mean, I'm not going to quibble with some of the things that may or may not be different than the evidence, but anything that's -- those are the things that are material. Senator Schoenhorn: There are things in the reports that there was either no evidence of or was contrary, but it's not material. Senator Schoenhorn: Those are the only things that I wish to bring to the court's attention with regard to the particular Senator Schoenhorn: statements in the report, since this becomes part of the permanent record and follows with Mr. Konis. Senator Schoenhorn: So I ask that that be -- those changes be made. Senator Schoenhorn: If I just have one moment, I just want to make sure that I don't have anything else that I need to spring up. Senator Schoenhorn: Just have one more moment, Your Honor. Senator Schoenhorn: There is one other matter, and that was also of some -- just some evidence, and in fact, a term -- it was played -- Senator Schoenhorn: for the jury, and I believe the -- I believe it was Detective Kimball admitted it was incorrect. Senator Schoenhorn: It states here on page six in that same third paragraph that begins detectives in the last -- Senator Schoenhorn: Second to last sentence. Senator Schoenhorn: It says, "Traconis began cleaning windows and then gave up because she realized the house was too big." Senator Schoenhorn: That was made clear that that was a false statement that was -- or at least it was inaccurate, and Mr. Kimball admitted that it was. Senator Schoenhorn: We played that portion for him, and she never said that. Senator Schoenhorn: That was something they asked her, and she said that's not true. Senator Schoenhorn: They said, "Well, we have it on tape," and they played a portion, and that portion did not include that statement. Senator Schoenhorn: So I believe that should also be removed. Senator Schoenhorn: The fact that she was cleaning, but I think the part about windows, because that was never said, and therefore it's inaccurate to put it in here. Senator Schoenhorn: That's it.
[00:22:42] Speaker 1: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Again, the caveat is that the reports that were generated during the course of the investigation Senator Schoenhorn: and the warrant affidavits, the warrants themselves, served as the fountain for which much of the offense conduct is recited. Senator Schoenhorn: However, the summary and recommendations somewhat, this court believes in large part mitigates Senator Schoenhorn: some of what counsel has indicated. Senator Schoenhorn: According to the Office of Adult Probation, Senator Schoenhorn: that's from members of which did not attend the trial. Senator Schoenhorn: The court is reading from the summary and recommendations. Senator Schoenhorn: The extent of her role in the instant offense is not fully clear. Senator Schoenhorn: That's from the Office of Adult Probation, which did not attend the trial. Senator Schoenhorn: So if there are any corrections that have to be made, the corrections are noted as a record, Senator Schoenhorn: but it would not change that ultimate view by the Office of Adult Probation. Senator Schoenhorn: Are we ready to proceed? Senator Schoenhorn: We are, your honor.
[00:24:41] Speaker 3: Senator Schoenhorn: If I may just comment on the state's view for the PSI. Senator Schoenhorn: Yes. Senator Schoenhorn: I will be brief as your honor has already indicated. Senator Schoenhorn: What I will agree with counsel on is I'm not going to quibble over the facts on how they are presented in the PSI. Senator Schoenhorn: As your honor has indicated, it does not reflect any bit of the trial and a lot of the details that came out on the trial. Senator Schoenhorn: For the summary and recommendation, I don't at this time have any substantive changes or considerations with respect to the PSI as a whole, Senator Schoenhorn: but the state will certainly be remarking on it as I go forward. Senator Schoenhorn: But we are ready to proceed, your honor.
[00:25:17] Speaker 4: Senator Schoenhorn: And before we do, as a housekeeping matter, there were a number of letters that the court had requested be provided to the court ahead of time. Senator Schoenhorn: I have also taken those same letters, I believe, if my math is correct, there are 63 of them, placed them on a disk, handed that to the clerk. Senator Schoenhorn: I had also emailed them to the state well in advance so they had every one of those letters. Senator Schoenhorn: I asked that that be marked as I don't know how or if these are court exhibits because it's something to the court. Senator Schoenhorn: And then there was a letter so that would as a disk constitute one exhibit for all 63 plus or minus letters that the court received. Senator Schoenhorn: And there was a letter that was sent directly to the court that was then emailed to my office by the clerk by a Barbara Ruppert. Senator Schoenhorn: And I asked that that letter be marked. Senator Schoenhorn: I don't know if the court already did, but I asked that that also be marked as an exhibit for purpose, a court exhibit for purposes of today's sentencing.
[00:26:14] Speaker 3: Senator Schoenhorn: Same as well, your honor. Senator Schoenhorn: I have, we have about 12 speakers who are going to speak to the court. Senator Schoenhorn: They have presented letters I have put those on a disk provided copies to Council, as well as on the disk is each of those speakers has picked a special photograph. Senator Schoenhorn: That is special to them regarding Jennifer doulos. Senator Schoenhorn: So I have that on the on the disk as well, I asked that that be made. Senator Schoenhorn: Well, however, it is marked as well, and the state is ready to proceed.
[00:26:41] Speaker 1: Senator Schoenhorn: So what we will do is for the defense disk. Senator Schoenhorn: We'll designate it as defense sentencing A. Senator Schoenhorn: For the individual letter defense sentencing A-1. Senator Schoenhorn: For the prosecution, prosecution sentencing one. Senator Schoenhorn: You may proceed, attorney Manning.
[00:27:06] Speaker 3: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you, your honor, if I just may have one moment. Senator Schoenhorn: Your honor, Michelle Tracona stands before this court after being found guilty by a jury of her peers. Senator Schoenhorn: To the charge of conspiracy to commit murder of Jennifer doulos. Senator Schoenhorn: Tampering and conspiracy to commit tampering for disposing of evidence in Hartford on May 24, 2019. Senator Schoenhorn: And tampering and the conspiracy to commit tampering for destroying evidence in the Toyota Tacoma on May 29, 2019 at Russell Speeders in Avon. Senator Schoenhorn: She was found guilty by a jury of her peers after trial, as well as hindering prosecution. Senator Schoenhorn: Before I go into the state's remarks and recommendation, I'm going to ask the court to hear from the people who are most devastated by the defendant's selfish manipulative and cruel actions. Senator Schoenhorn: By her agreement to murder Jennifer doulos by her assistance in covering it up and by her failure to accept any responsibility or show any remorse. Senator Schoenhorn: I'd ask the court to hear from Jennifer doulos his mother, sister, five children and the friends who have kept Jennifer spirit alive. Senator Schoenhorn: Despite the cruelty of Michelle Traconis. Senator Schoenhorn: Yes. Senator Schoenhorn: I'd ask your honor first to hear from Jennifer's mother, Gloria Farber. Senator Schoenhorn: If I may just have one moment. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:28:42] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:29:23] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:29:39] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:29:40] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:30:01] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:30:03] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:30:12] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:30:23] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:30:28] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:30:29] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:30:33] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:30:34] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:30:42] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:30:53] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:31:24] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:31:25] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:31:40] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:31:41] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:32:01] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:32:02] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Welcome. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:32:37] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:32:38] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:32:56] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:32:57] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:33:03] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:33:05] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:33:18] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:33:19] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:33:34] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:33:35] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:33:39] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:33:40] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:34:15] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:34:16] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:34:40] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:34:42] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:34:44] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:34:46] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:35:10] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:35:11] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:35:18] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:35:19] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:35:38] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:35:39] Speaker 8: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:36:02] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:36:19] Speaker 3: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:36:32] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Good morning, Judge. Senator Schoenhorn: Good morning.
[00:36:36] Speaker 9: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you for giving me the opportunity to speak about my sister, Jennifer Barbara Dulos. Senator Schoenhorn: On Christmas Day of 2018, my mother and I were visiting Jennifer and her five children. Senator Schoenhorn: When her children were out of the room, Jennifer mentioned that Michelle and Fotis were engaging in some type of fraud. Senator Schoenhorn: She was extremely concerned about this. Senator Schoenhorn: At 8:45 on the morning of May 24th, 2019, I awoke with a startle. Senator Schoenhorn: I did not realize at this time that my sister Jennifer's life was ending. Senator Schoenhorn: But there was something in me that was shaken to the core. Senator Schoenhorn: At 10:04 AM, I sent Jennifer a text in which I told her about my recent trip Senator Schoenhorn: to Florida to visit our Uncle Jerry. Senator Schoenhorn: In that same text, I wished her a happy Memorial Day weekend. Senator Schoenhorn: But I never received a response. Senator Schoenhorn: By the end of the day, my sister had become a missing person. Senator Schoenhorn: I loved Jennifer since the day she was born. Senator Schoenhorn: I remember holding her when she got home from the hospital. Senator Schoenhorn: I was so proud to have such a beautiful and precious baby sister. Senator Schoenhorn: And as the years went by, my pride in Jennifer grew stronger. Senator Schoenhorn: She grew up to be a talented writer and a beautiful person. Senator Schoenhorn: I miss Jennifer's intelligence, her soft, sweet voice, and the sound of her laughter. Senator Schoenhorn: There are really no words to adequately express what losing my sister Jennifer has meant to me. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you, Judge. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:38:47] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:38:53] Speaker 3: Senator Schoenhorn: Next, I would ask the court to hear from Petros. Petros was only 13 years old the day his mother was murdered.
[00:39:04] Speaker 10: Senator Schoenhorn: Good morning, Your Honor. I am Jennifer's eldest son. Senator Schoenhorn: The defendant's actions in conspiring to murder my mother have had irreparable effects on my life. Senator Schoenhorn: Many that I am still figuring out each and every day. Senator Schoenhorn: I have been left with a hole inside of me that I know I will never be able to fill. Senator Schoenhorn: Losing my mother tore me from the joyful innocence of my youth and made me confront the horrors of the world at an early age.
[00:39:36] Speaker 5: Senator Schoenhorn: Sorry, the interpreter will have to ask the gentleman to speak a little slow.
[00:39:41] Speaker 10: Senator Schoenhorn: My mother was everything to me. Senator Schoenhorn: But during the divorce, I became very bitter with everyone around me, especially Mom, because she was always trying to help me. Senator Schoenhorn: This meant that I hurt the person closest to me because I didn't know how else to voice my pain. Senator Schoenhorn: The defendant's actions mean that I will never be able to tell my mom how sorry I am for not being a better son when she needed me. Senator Schoenhorn: I will never be able to tell Mom how proud of her courage I am, most importantly, how much I love her. Senator Schoenhorn: This fact haunts me every day. Senator Schoenhorn: There are feelings and thoughts that I will never be able to express again because my mom was the key to those parts of me. Senator Schoenhorn: I'm upset that I will never know the man I could have become if my mom was still here to guide me. Senator Schoenhorn: She was my hero, and now I often feel lost without her comforting smile and her meaningful discussions. Senator Schoenhorn: I wish I could share my victories with her, but I can't because she is not here anymore. Senator Schoenhorn: I wish I knew she was in the stands watching me play. Senator Schoenhorn: I wish I could come home and show her my grades and feel the genuine pride in me that I only got from her. Senator Schoenhorn: I wish you could sit for hours and discuss everything there is to talk about. Senator Schoenhorn: I wish she could see me mature from a boy into a young man. Senator Schoenhorn: I wish I could hug mom again, but I can't now. Senator Schoenhorn: Your Honor, I understand that sitting over there is a mother with a child and a family who love her. Senator Schoenhorn: My mom once had that, we once had that, and she helped destroy it. Senator Schoenhorn: That woman appeals to our sympathy under the guise of being a mother. Senator Schoenhorn: She has desecrated the meaning of that word for me. Senator Schoenhorn: This statement is primarily about my loss, but I also want to highlight my mom's exceptional nature. Senator Schoenhorn: The number of people who have rallied around us is a testament to the devotion she inspired in those close to her. Senator Schoenhorn: I want to end with the lesson my mom taught me. Senator Schoenhorn: Leave everything the same or better than you found it. Senator Schoenhorn: Michelle Traconis, you did the opposite. Senator Schoenhorn: You should be punished. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:42:03] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you, Your Honor.
[00:42:08] Speaker 3: Senator Schoenhorn: I'm going to ask the court now to hear from Kiki Davis. Senator Schoenhorn: Miss Davis was a close friend of Jennifer's, her lifelong friend.
[00:42:19] Speaker 11: Senator Schoenhorn: Your Honor, I appreciate the opportunity to share my thoughts and experience regarding the loss of Jennifer Dulos. Senator Schoenhorn: I hope the photos here today will give you a visual sense of her kindness, gentle nature, humor, and genuine love for her family and friends. Senator Schoenhorn: And our words will reach deep and convey our loss. Senator Schoenhorn: In 1973, I started first grade in Brooklyn and was very fortunate to be in class with Jennifer. Senator Schoenhorn: She and I became best friends, which over the next 46 years even grew closer to sisterhood. Senator Schoenhorn: When Jennifer filed for divorce and was fighting for custody of her children, our friendship grew even deeper. Senator Schoenhorn: I reminded her often that we were family and that I should always be there for her. Senator Schoenhorn: On one occasion, she asked if she could include me and her children as her children's guardian in her will. Senator Schoenhorn: At that time, I thought it was a smart, practical decision and, of course, promise to care and love for them as my own. Senator Schoenhorn: I'm grateful we had this conversation as it has guided me through the years together. Senator Schoenhorn: The loss of Jennifer has greatly impacted my and my family's lives. Senator Schoenhorn: We went from five to ten in our hearts and even larger if you include Lauren, Laurel, Carrie, Caroline, Melissa, and Gloria. Senator Schoenhorn: We have learned our hearts are capable of so much love. Senator Schoenhorn: It has also been a real test to my family's strength. Senator Schoenhorn: I've been an absent mother to my own children and spouse to my husband, Senator Schoenhorn: especially during the years that I divided my time living two weeks per month in Charlotte, North Carolina, Senator Schoenhorn: and the other two weeks in Brooklyn with Jennifer's children. Senator Schoenhorn: The heartbreaking guilt of going back and forth has been one of the hardest tests I have ever endured. Senator Schoenhorn: But that was a choice I made and not entirely something Michelle Draconis did to me. Senator Schoenhorn: However, Michelle Draconis' actions, and perhaps lack of actions, greatly impacted me daily, Senator Schoenhorn: as I am now the closest person to a mother these five may ever have again. Senator Schoenhorn: My friend Jennifer should be in my shoes hugging her children each morning. Senator Schoenhorn: My friend should be in my place hearing them laugh or cry. Senator Schoenhorn: My friend should be by her children's side as they do their homework, Senator Schoenhorn: get ready for bed or wish to talk about friends. Senator Schoenhorn: My friend should be here to teach her family her history and her young years. Senator Schoenhorn: My friend should be here singing songs, watching their sports games, Senator Schoenhorn: and doing puzzles with her children. Senator Schoenhorn: My friend should be troubleshooting and agonizing over colleges, ACTs, and summer jobs. Senator Schoenhorn: Her children should feel the safety of her hug. Senator Schoenhorn: They should know her incredible patience and love for listening. Senator Schoenhorn: They should hear the sound of her wonderful contagious laugh. Senator Schoenhorn: They should experience the innate wisdom she holds about the right course for their future. Senator Schoenhorn: They should feel, not remember, her unconditional love. Senator Schoenhorn: Over the past five years, I have done my best to be a mother to Petra, Senator Schoenhorn: Theodore, Christiana, Constantine, and Noel. Senator Schoenhorn: While always carrying the deep sadness that it should be Jennifer, Senator Schoenhorn: not me, seeing and being present in her children's lives. Senator Schoenhorn: Michelle Traconis, you took this from them. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[00:46:16] Speaker 3: Senator Schoenhorn: Your Honor, I'd ask you to hear next from Theodore. Senator Schoenhorn: Theodore is Jennifer's son and he was 13 when his mother was taken from him. Senator Schoenhorn: Good morning, Your Honor.
[00:46:42] Speaker 12: Senator Schoenhorn: Good morning. Senator Schoenhorn: My mother was the best mom I could ever ask for. Senator Schoenhorn: She loved me and my siblings unconditionally. Senator Schoenhorn: She was the brightest light, a shining star, the most unselfish person you would have ever met. Senator Schoenhorn: At the time, I did not really know all that she was doing. Senator Schoenhorn: But looking back at it, it was truly incredible. Senator Schoenhorn: Taking care of five young children, dealing with divorce court, checking in on her mother, Senator Schoenhorn: and trying to stand tall against the evil working to bring her down. Senator Schoenhorn: My life now is nothing like it used to be. Senator Schoenhorn: I no longer have my mother, my hero. Senator Schoenhorn: I will never talk to her again. Senator Schoenhorn: I will never do my homework with her again. Senator Schoenhorn: I will never ask her for advice again. Senator Schoenhorn: I will never go on an errand with her again. Senator Schoenhorn: She will never see me graduate high school. Senator Schoenhorn: She will never see me graduate college. Senator Schoenhorn: She will never see me get married. Senator Schoenhorn: These are just a few things and they go for my four siblings as well. Senator Schoenhorn: Michelle, I will speak to you in English because that's the language we've always communicated in. Senator Schoenhorn: Michelle, imagine this. Senator Schoenhorn: You wake up tomorrow and your daughter is gone and you will never see her again. Senator Schoenhorn: Gloria Farber lived this nightmare on May 24, 2019. Senator Schoenhorn: What if it was not your daughter, but your sister Daniella gone without a trace. Senator Schoenhorn: Melissa Farber went through this on May 24, 2019. Senator Schoenhorn: What about if you woke up tomorrow and your dear friend Petu was gone and you would never see her again. Senator Schoenhorn: Kiki, Laurel, Carrie, Caroline and Lauren, to name a few experienced that terror on May 24, 2019. Senator Schoenhorn: What if you woke up to the news that you would never see your mother again. Senator Schoenhorn: My four siblings and I experienced that life crushing loss on May 24, 2019. Senator Schoenhorn: Five kids lost their mother. Senator Schoenhorn: Michelle, you caused this damage. Senator Schoenhorn: On May 24, 2019, you not only knew about, but conspired to murder a daughter, sister, friend and mother of five kids. Senator Schoenhorn: That day you took away five children's source of comfort, our protector. Senator Schoenhorn: You showed no remorse and you have yet to show any to this day. Senator Schoenhorn: You have sympathy only for yourself when you realize you will be punished. Senator Schoenhorn: You expected to get away with it because you believe you are above the law. Senator Schoenhorn: You thought nobody would suspect you and that all suspicion would fall on my dad. Senator Schoenhorn: Unfortunately, you underestimated law enforcement and the justice system in our country that day. Senator Schoenhorn: And the days and months following. Senator Schoenhorn: You were caught red handed and you're shocked. Senator Schoenhorn: You will spend the next however many years behind bars. Senator Schoenhorn: And this will give you the time to think about what you have done. Senator Schoenhorn: Every day you will wake up in a small cell with not much to do. Senator Schoenhorn: You will have many years to contemplate what you know you have done. Senator Schoenhorn: If you have just the least bit of humanity, I suggest you let all of us know exactly what happened that day and where my mother is. Senator Schoenhorn: Do the right thing, Michelle. Senator Schoenhorn: Admit to your family what you did instead of trying to keep their family pride. Senator Schoenhorn: Ephesians 4:25. Senator Schoenhorn: Therefore, each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. Senator Schoenhorn: I will never forgive you for what you have done, and until you give us more answers, you will be considered evil, violent, and most definitely a coward. Senator Schoenhorn: An appropriate sentence, Your Honor, would be 50 years, 10 years for each child who lost their mother that day. Senator Schoenhorn: May my mother rest in peace. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you, Your Honor. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: I ask, Your Honor, next to hear from Laurel Watts. Senator Schoenhorn: Laurel has been Jennifer's friend since childhood and is now a caregiver to her children.
[00:50:33] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Good morning, Your Honor. Senator Schoenhorn: Good morning, Your Honor. Senator Schoenhorn: Good morning, Your Honor. Senator Schoenhorn: Good morning, Your Honor.
[00:50:37] Speaker 3: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you, Your Honor. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you, Your Honor. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you, Your Honor. Senator Schoenhorn: I ask, Your Honor, next to hear from Laurel Watts. Senator Schoenhorn: Laurel Watts. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you, Your Honor. Senator Schoenhorn: Good morning, Your Honor. Senator Schoenhorn: Good morning.
[00:50:45] Speaker 13: Senator Schoenhorn: This is my friend, Jenny, at 20, on my roof in Brooklyn, the summer we lived Senator Schoenhorn: together. Senator Schoenhorn: Jenny Farber was my friend for 46 years. Senator Schoenhorn: From when we were four to when we were 50. Senator Schoenhorn: From community nursery school to middle school math class to Brown University. Senator Schoenhorn: You have to be pretty extraordinary to inspire friendship that evergreen. Senator Schoenhorn: She was. Senator Schoenhorn: All the adjectives: deep, beautiful, genius, outrageous, gentle, and wise, can't even come close. Senator Schoenhorn: We lived together, traveled together, and we held each other's babies when they were born. Senator Schoenhorn: And I am lonely for Jennifer every day. Senator Schoenhorn: My conversation with her lasted for 46 years. Senator Schoenhorn: It ended on May 24, 2019, forever silenced. Senator Schoenhorn: I have her last voicemail. Senator Schoenhorn: I have her last text saved on my phone. Senator Schoenhorn: I have no other friend who knew me at four, and at 12, and at 20, and at 50. Senator Schoenhorn: The Jennifer that knew me at all those ages is gone. Senator Schoenhorn: And all those Jennys stretching back in time exist only in my memory. Senator Schoenhorn: I can't see them in her face. Senator Schoenhorn: Sometimes I can glimpse them in her children's expressions, hear their laugh in theirs. Senator Schoenhorn: On March 1, 2024, Michelle Traconis was convicted of conspiring to murder Jennifer Farber-Doulos. Senator Schoenhorn: By killing Jennifer, Traconis cut off a future for Jennifer and for us. Senator Schoenhorn: So much of this trial has been about what was. Senator Schoenhorn: A failed relationship, divorce, court orders. Senator Schoenhorn: But every time I was with Jennifer and her children, she was deeply, truly content. Senator Schoenhorn: She was always holding one kid's hand, had another in her lap, was making a crazy joke with two of them. Senator Schoenhorn: She delighted in them wholly. Senator Schoenhorn: The most relaxed, beautiful and fulfilled I have seen her in all my years of friendship with her was with them. Senator Schoenhorn: That should have continued growing and changing and evolving. Senator Schoenhorn: But because of Michelle Traconis, Jennifer's kids never got that future with her. Senator Schoenhorn: The week before she was killed, Jenny called me. Senator Schoenhorn: She was feeling hopeful about the future, that there was light at the end of the divorce tunnel. Senator Schoenhorn: I said, we're going to have so much fun. Senator Schoenhorn: You're going to find someone to love, who loves you. Senator Schoenhorn: You're going to be free. Senator Schoenhorn: But because Michelle Traconis, Jennifer never got that future. Senator Schoenhorn: And I never got that time with her. Senator Schoenhorn: By killing Jennifer, Michelle Traconis shattered Jennifer's family. Senator Schoenhorn: I have spent every day for the past five years, numb with grief and raging with anger. Senator Schoenhorn: Working with these extraordinary people to piece this family together. Senator Schoenhorn: We are a patched, wobbling, defiant and loving thing. Senator Schoenhorn: At the same time, I have struggled to protect my family from the fallout and the grief, my neglect and my anger. Senator Schoenhorn: I've asked everything of my husband, my children and my aging parents, and I will keep asking it of them because our project is never going to end. Senator Schoenhorn: By killing Jennifer, Traconis left five children without a mother. Senator Schoenhorn: I witnessed that loss every day. Senator Schoenhorn: I take solace in Jennifer's children, Christiane and Constantine, Petros and Noel and Theodore, because they are part of her and they are now a part of me. Senator Schoenhorn: Like she was a part of me. Senator Schoenhorn: But every act of mothering them, hair brushed, hands held, secrets kept, fights, worry and pride is bittersweet. Senator Schoenhorn: All joy is mediated. Senator Schoenhorn: Because every moment that's good and every moment that's bad, Jennifer desperately wanted. Senator Schoenhorn: It should be her visiting colleges with Theodore, lazing in bed with Christiane, cheering at Noel's volleyball game. Senator Schoenhorn: It should be her wrestling with Petros' ACTs and laughing at Constantine's newspaper article. Senator Schoenhorn: Not me. Senator Schoenhorn: But Jenny's not here. Senator Schoenhorn: Because Triconus helped destroy evidence and lied to the police, Fotis Doulos remained at large over nine months following the murder of Jennifer from May 2019 to January 2020. Senator Schoenhorn: That's May, all of June, July, August, September, October, November, December, January. Senator Schoenhorn: We lived in a state of fear that we would lose the kids to him and that they would be hurt. Senator Schoenhorn: Hours after the murder, Doulos demanded we return the kids to him. Senator Schoenhorn: Two days after the murder, he was raging in our lobby. Senator Schoenhorn: Even after he was arrested, the police warned us that he would kidnap the kids or enact some violent revenge on us for taking care of them. Senator Schoenhorn: I did the calculations. Senator Schoenhorn: How long did we have from when the ankle bracelet alarm went off until he arrived on our doorstep? Senator Schoenhorn: One hour? Senator Schoenhorn: Maybe? Senator Schoenhorn: The kids were accompanied everywhere by armed security guard for nine months. Senator Schoenhorn: And I was never not on alert. Senator Schoenhorn: Because Triconus helped destroy evidence and lied to the police, Jennifer's body has never been found. Senator Schoenhorn: I could not mourn Jennifer openly because she was missing. Senator Schoenhorn: I could not answer the kids' questions. Senator Schoenhorn: Where is she? Senator Schoenhorn: I gave a eulogy at a memorial without a body. Senator Schoenhorn: Her mother put a headstone over an empty grave. Senator Schoenhorn: Because Triconus assisted Doulos in the disposal of Jennifer's body, all we do have is a bloody bra and a shirt, stiff with Jennifer's blood, sliced up the center. Senator Schoenhorn: And all of the horror engendered by these, our only artifacts. Senator Schoenhorn: That's what the kids have left of their beautiful, gentle mother. Senator Schoenhorn: And that's what I have left of my friend. Senator Schoenhorn: In the instructions explaining the scope of the victim's statements, we are invited Senator Schoenhorn: to give our opinion as to what should happen to the defendant. Senator Schoenhorn: In my opinion, Michelle Triconus deserves the maximum sentence available under the law. Senator Schoenhorn: One, your cruelty is stunning. Senator Schoenhorn: And therefore you deserve a sentence at the upper range of the limit, upper limit of the range. Senator Schoenhorn: These five children were not an abstraction. Senator Schoenhorn: They were not your boyfriend's kids, a photograph on a desk. Senator Schoenhorn: You skied with them, you lived with them, you fed them, you tuck them in. Senator Schoenhorn: Your child, Nicole, is the same age as Petrus and Theodore. Senator Schoenhorn: She is a daughter, like Christiane and Noel. Senator Schoenhorn: How could you, as a mother, knowing what that means, knowing what that bond is, Senator Schoenhorn: how important that is for Nicole? Senator Schoenhorn: If you choose to kill the mother of these children you claim to love, Senator Schoenhorn: you must have known what the outcome would be, the devastation. Senator Schoenhorn: But you did it anyway. Senator Schoenhorn: Killing Jennifer demonstrates a capacity for cruelty that is mind-boggling. Senator Schoenhorn: Or that you are incapable of human feeling. Senator Schoenhorn: That you are unable to conceive of these children as anything other than things to be acquired. Senator Schoenhorn: Your greed is engulfing and therefore you deserve a sentence at the upper limit of the rage. Senator Schoenhorn: You claim you didn't know Jennifer, but you coveted her life and you effectively took it for your own. Senator Schoenhorn: First you took Jennifer's husband. Senator Schoenhorn: Whatever the state of their relationship, they were married. Senator Schoenhorn: Then you took Jennifer's home, moving yourself Miami into Fort Jefferson, into Jennifer's bed. Senator Schoenhorn: You moved Nicole into one of the kids' bedrooms. Senator Schoenhorn: You enrolled Nicole at the school where Jennifer had five children, friends, a community. Senator Schoenhorn: You tried to take Jennifer's children by erasing Jennifer. Senator Schoenhorn: You hoped to get custody, becoming what you and Fortis prematurely claimed to be, a married couple with six children. Senator Schoenhorn: You cold bloodedly planned, executed and covered up Jennifer's murder and therefore you deserve to be sentenced at the upper limit of the range. Senator Schoenhorn: This killing was not an accident. Senator Schoenhorn: You did not lose control. Senator Schoenhorn: You helped plan every complex step, minute by minute. Senator Schoenhorn: You drifted around that house, fiddling with Fortis' phone, providing him with an alibi, all the while knowing he was in New Canaan, snuffing out Jennifer's life. Senator Schoenhorn: You were intimate with him against the door of the coma, bloody seats and all. Senator Schoenhorn: You sat in a raptor, chewing gum and texting while he disposed of bags of bloody evidence. Senator Schoenhorn: That is the definition of cold blooded. Senator Schoenhorn: Your Honor, I believe any and all sentences should be served consecutively. Senator Schoenhorn: There are no mitigating factors. Senator Schoenhorn: This woman is sophisticated. Senator Schoenhorn: She is educated. Senator Schoenhorn: She is an independent person. Senator Schoenhorn: She was not swayed by Fortis. Senator Schoenhorn: I knew him for years. Senator Schoenhorn: Much longer than she did. Senator Schoenhorn: And he was no Svengali. Senator Schoenhorn: He had no special powers. Senator Schoenhorn: She has shown no remorse. Senator Schoenhorn: She has had many opportunities over the past five years to help or show compassion. Senator Schoenhorn: And she never has. Senator Schoenhorn: Finally, to the degree time in prison provides retribution for these crimes, Senator Schoenhorn: she deserves to be sentenced at the upper limit of the range. Senator Schoenhorn: Draconis' daughter, Nicole, was 12 when Draconis conspired to kill Jennifer. Senator Schoenhorn: In the past five years, Draconis has raised her daughter into young adulthood. Senator Schoenhorn: In Connecticut, Miami, and Colorado. Senator Schoenhorn: Draconis has been available to her mother, spent time with her sister, and her friends. Senator Schoenhorn: Jennifer will not raise her children past May 24, 2019. Senator Schoenhorn: Jennifer will never take care of her mother or sister. Senator Schoenhorn: Jennifer will never spend time with us, her friends. Senator Schoenhorn: Jennifer's sentence is forever.
[01:02:19] Speaker 3: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you, Your Honor. Senator Schoenhorn: I would ask the court to hear next from Christiane. Senator Schoenhorn: Christiane is Jennifer's daughter. Senator Schoenhorn: She was 10. Senator Schoenhorn: The day her mother was murdered. Senator Schoenhorn: Good morning, Your Honor. Senator Schoenhorn: Good morning.
[01:02:44] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: The first time I met Michelle, we were water skiing in Miami. Senator Schoenhorn: I had heard that she was my dad's friend, and that was all I ever thought was relevant to know.
[01:02:47] Speaker 14: Senator Schoenhorn: The next time she came into my life was when we left Farmington with my mom. Senator Schoenhorn: I don't remember it very well, but I didn't know we were leaving Fort Jefferson for good. Senator Schoenhorn: When my mom told us we were going to New York, I expected just another visit to my grandma's house. Senator Schoenhorn: And the pictures of the house we were moving into began to be shown in talk of dad's cheating slipped from adult's mouth and spread to me. Senator Schoenhorn: I was confused. Senator Schoenhorn: My dad, the person who I looked up to, was doing something awful, and it was with Michelle. Senator Schoenhorn: Michelle, the woman I had not given a thought to since I had last seen her. Senator Schoenhorn: Our lives completely changed from then on. Senator Schoenhorn: We were living in New Canaan and getting enrolled in New Canaan Country School. Senator Schoenhorn: I remember talking to my dad on one of our visits. Senator Schoenhorn: I asked him something. Senator Schoenhorn: I asked him something like, why did you cheat on mom? Senator Schoenhorn: I thought you said cheating was bad. Senator Schoenhorn: He answered, when you really love somebody, sometimes you can't wait. Senator Schoenhorn: It occurred to me then that the person dad really loved was no longer my mom. Senator Schoenhorn: It was Michelle. Senator Schoenhorn: Michelle, the one who was moving into my house, sleeping on my mom's side of the bed. Senator Schoenhorn: It occurred to me then that this affair was why my mom took us and left. Senator Schoenhorn: Why she cried at night. Senator Schoenhorn: And why we were no longer a family. Senator Schoenhorn: From then on, Michelle was a part of my life with my dad. Senator Schoenhorn: Later on, my dad told us that Michelle was not allowed to be around us anymore. Senator Schoenhorn: And that if we wanted to keep seeing her, we could not tell mom that Michelle was at our visits. Senator Schoenhorn: I cared almost more than anything about keeping my dad happy and proud. Senator Schoenhorn: So when my mom asked me if Michelle was at our visits, I lied. Senator Schoenhorn: I stood in her bathroom. Senator Schoenhorn: Just my mom and me looked at her and said, no, she's not at our visits. Senator Schoenhorn: Not because I wanted to keep seeing Michelle, but because I knew dad wanted to. Senator Schoenhorn: Mom found out that we lied and soon dad's visits became shorter and shorter until it was once a week with the supervisor. Senator Schoenhorn: Michelle's presence in our lives, even before May 24th, was overwhelming and invasive. Senator Schoenhorn: I lied for her. Senator Schoenhorn: I was told to trust her. Senator Schoenhorn: I switched bedrooms so that she and her daughter could move in, all while seeing the effects it had on my own family. Senator Schoenhorn: On May 24th, 2019, I went to my friend's house after school while my siblings went to New York. Senator Schoenhorn: I was told I had to sleep at that friend's house because something was happening, but nobody told me what. Senator Schoenhorn: That night I called my mom and she did not answer. Senator Schoenhorn: On the same day, my dad, with the help of Michelle Traconis, murdered my mom. Senator Schoenhorn: And even though Michelle may not have been holding the weapon, I truly believe that she had a lot more to do with everything than she's letting on. Senator Schoenhorn: Michelle Traconis, to me, is the reason I feel completely lost and alone on nights when I cannot sleep. Senator Schoenhorn: She's the reason why I've blocked out my childhood and that day so much I can barely remember it. Senator Schoenhorn: She's the reason kids at school look at me with pity. Senator Schoenhorn: The reason my teachers say guardians and not parents. Senator Schoenhorn: The reason I've had to sit and watch as the people who care for me break down. Senator Schoenhorn: The reason my siblings move through life with a huge piece of them lost. Senator Schoenhorn: She's the reason I've had to sit on the bathroom floor with my little sister and try my best to comfort her. Senator Schoenhorn: She's the reason I had to visit my dad in the hospital knowing what he did and knowing he chose to leave us. Senator Schoenhorn: She's the reason I did not get to visit my mom in any sort of way before she died and have no closure in her death. Senator Schoenhorn: She's the reason I no longer feel I have a real beginning, a home to always come back to, parents I will always belong to. Senator Schoenhorn: She's the reason words mom and dad spark nothing but a hazy memory. Senator Schoenhorn: The reason those words will never again represent the person who holds me in their arms as I cry about some unimportant temporary problem. Senator Schoenhorn: The person I can casually go to lunch with and talk about all the gossip and trauma with. Senator Schoenhorn: The person who comes to my sports games and cheers me on. Senator Schoenhorn: The person who picks me up from school. Senator Schoenhorn: Mom and dad are words that only bring trauma and grief. Senator Schoenhorn: I will never again share those simple moments that mean everything. Senator Schoenhorn: Now the only time I can feel my mom's presence is through memories. Senator Schoenhorn: I listen to my grandma tell me about my mom when she was my age, her friends share stories of her life. Senator Schoenhorn: All of this is bittersweet. Senator Schoenhorn: I hold on to these moments of her life knowing it should be her telling me these stories. Senator Schoenhorn: I read her own writings where she talks about motherhood and of the future, the future she never got to experience. Senator Schoenhorn: Our teenage moments that she predicts she never got to live through. Senator Schoenhorn: And now I'm coming to a point in my life when I'm starting to understand the full person she was. Senator Schoenhorn: I only knew her as my mom. Senator Schoenhorn: I'm now discovering who she was as a child, a teenager, a young adult by myself. Senator Schoenhorn: She should be sitting here and doing it alongside me. Senator Schoenhorn: Michelle Draconis is the reason I've had to wake up every single day since May 24, 2019 and ignore the first 10 years of my life because I cannot even begin to process everything. Senator Schoenhorn: For that and everything else I've said, Michelle deserves a maximum time in jail. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[01:07:42] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[01:07:42] Speaker 3: Senator Schoenhorn: Next, I'd ask the court to hear from Lauren Almeida. Lauren is the nanny to Jennifer's children and was Jennifer's friend.
[01:07:56] Speaker 6: Senator Schoenhorn: Your Honor, thank you for letting me speak today. This is a photo of Jennifer on her 50th birthday. We all celebrated together. It's also her last birthday that we all celebrated together. Senator Schoenhorn: I first met Jennifer in 2012 when she had five small kids and I was 21 in my senior year of college. Senator Schoenhorn: I started babysitting for Jennifer once a week, but then that grew to seeing Jennifer and her kids almost six days a week. Senator Schoenhorn: From the beginning, I was never just their nanny. Senator Schoenhorn: To be inside someone's home is such an intimate experience, one that has many ups and many downs. Senator Schoenhorn: But right away, Jennifer opened up her home to me and made me part of their family. Senator Schoenhorn: We were a duo right away. Senator Schoenhorn: She trusted me and I trusted her. Senator Schoenhorn: It was Jennifer I went to when anything happened in my life. Senator Schoenhorn: When I needed direction or someone to just vent to. Senator Schoenhorn: Jennifer always had my best interests at heart and gave me a space to be heard. Senator Schoenhorn: She made me laugh. Senator Schoenhorn: She made me think about my future. Senator Schoenhorn: And she provided me with opportunities I never thought I'd have. Senator Schoenhorn: Most importantly, she loved me and I loved her and her family. Senator Schoenhorn: Through this experience, I've gained people in my life that were Jennifer's closest friends and are now my chosen family. Senator Schoenhorn: Women who are teaching me how to be a mother, how to let things go, how to just live and love. Senator Schoenhorn: They have all taken some place of what Jennifer was to me, even though that hole can never be filled. Senator Schoenhorn: There's a piece of Jennifer in all of them. Senator Schoenhorn: I hear Jennifer's voice in Kiki's, her intelligence in Carrie, her force with Laurel, and her wittiness in Caroline. Senator Schoenhorn: Seeing Melissa and Gloria, I see Jennifer in their eyes and smiles. Senator Schoenhorn: While I've gained this chosen family, it shouldn't be like this. Senator Schoenhorn: It should be Jennifer sitting at the table helping with homework. Senator Schoenhorn: It should be Jennifer attending sports events. Senator Schoenhorn: It should be Jennifer taking them on college tours. Senator Schoenhorn: It should be Jennifer's bed they run into at night. Senator Schoenhorn: It should be Jennifer giving them advice on friendships. Senator Schoenhorn: It should be Jennifer that they have to console them. Senator Schoenhorn: It should be Jennifer to see them at their sad times and at their happiest. Senator Schoenhorn: And you, Michelle, you have helped take away all of this. Senator Schoenhorn: You took their mother and you took my friend. Senator Schoenhorn: The actions of Michelle Trinconis have greatly affected my life and continue to affect my life. Senator Schoenhorn: The day Jennifer went missing was the day I started to fear not only for my life, Senator Schoenhorn: but the life of Jennifer's five children. Senator Schoenhorn: And this was directly because of what Michelle and Fotis decided to do on May 24, 2019. Senator Schoenhorn: I no longer slept, I no longer could leave the apartment without running to my car in fear that someone would come after me. Senator Schoenhorn: I could no longer enter my home in Connecticut without a police officer because I was afraid of Michelle and Fotis being on the other side waiting for me. Senator Schoenhorn: We didn't leave the kids alone because we were certain Michelle and Fotis would try and take them. Senator Schoenhorn: We had armed bodyguards escort us anywhere we went because we lived in fear 24/7. Senator Schoenhorn: I had nightmares so bad I woke up in tears shaking unable to let go of the thought of Michelle and Fotis taking these kids Senator Schoenhorn: and doing something unthinkable because the unthinkable had already happened. Senator Schoenhorn: It has been proven that Michelle conspired with Fotis to kill in the most gruesome way a mother of five kids, Senator Schoenhorn: a mother and my friend. Senator Schoenhorn: May 24/2019 was the day Jennifer was murdered by Fotis and Michelle and that was the day I decided I wouldn't leave those kids until she was found. Senator Schoenhorn: It's been five years and I still haven't left their side. Senator Schoenhorn: I had a relationship, upcoming career, family, friends, my whole life was in Connecticut. Senator Schoenhorn: I left all that to help Gloria and Jennifer's close friends to care for these kids. Senator Schoenhorn: My relationship ended. Senator Schoenhorn: I lost the place I called home. Senator Schoenhorn: I've lost friends and time with my family. Senator Schoenhorn: I had to rethink what my life would be like now that I had five kids to help look after. Senator Schoenhorn: These kids have become my whole world. Senator Schoenhorn: And they've taught me what unconditional love is. Senator Schoenhorn: But because of what Michelle has done, my life has become something unexpected. Senator Schoenhorn: I put my own goals in life on hold. Senator Schoenhorn: My desire to have my own children has been paused. Senator Schoenhorn: I've also witnessed what losing both parents have done to these kids. Senator Schoenhorn: Tears, fear, sadness. Senator Schoenhorn: Because they no longer have parents to watch them grow up. Senator Schoenhorn: Watch them graduate. Senator Schoenhorn: Help them learn from mistakes. Senator Schoenhorn: Enter relationships. Senator Schoenhorn: And share memories of their childhood. Senator Schoenhorn: The feeling we all feel knowing we have our parents in this world that love us unconditionally no matter what we do. Senator Schoenhorn: The five of them lost that. Senator Schoenhorn: And while the kids are surrounded by unconditional love, this feeling of safety and security for them is gone. Senator Schoenhorn: You, Michelle, were found guilty on all accounts in this courtroom. Senator Schoenhorn: You, Michelle, drove with photos while you threw away Jennifer's bloody clothes in the trash. Senator Schoenhorn: You, Michelle, lied multiple times to the police. Senator Schoenhorn: You, Michelle, have been disrespectful in this courtroom. Senator Schoenhorn: You, Michelle, have been found guilty of conspiring with photos to murder Jennifer. Senator Schoenhorn: And you, Michelle, show no remorse and no accountability. Senator Schoenhorn: Michelle Trinconis deserves to spend the maximum sentence behind bars because of all that she did. Senator Schoenhorn: She helped change the course of so many people's lives. Senator Schoenhorn: And for what? Senator Schoenhorn: To take Jennifer's place? Senator Schoenhorn: Because you could never. Senator Schoenhorn: To live this lavish lifestyle, photos promise? Senator Schoenhorn: We'll never know because I believe Michelle will never be honest. Senator Schoenhorn: She took away the most genuine, thoughtful, funny, and kind person I have ever met. Senator Schoenhorn: She took away a mother who sang silly songs to her kids, Senator Schoenhorn: who was always there when they failed to lift them back up. Senator Schoenhorn: A mother whose whole life was Petros, Theodore, Christian, Constantine, and Noel. Senator Schoenhorn: Now these kids and all of Jennifer's loved ones no longer have that. Senator Schoenhorn: We don't even have the comfort of knowing where she is. Senator Schoenhorn: Where is she, Michelle? Senator Schoenhorn: Michelle helped take Jennifer's life at the young age of 50. Senator Schoenhorn: And she deserves to live out the maximum sentence behind bars. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you, Your Honor. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you, Your Honor.
[01:14:47] Speaker 5: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[01:14:48] Speaker 3: Senator Schoenhorn: Your Honor, I would ask the court to hear next from Constantine. Constantine was Jennifer's son, and he was 10 years old when his mother was murdered. Senator Schoenhorn: Good morning, Your Honor.
[01:15:05] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Good morning.
[01:15:06] Speaker 15: Senator Schoenhorn: The actions of Michelle Triconis on May 24th, 2019 drastically impacted my life. Senator Schoenhorn: All this began back in 2016 when I first met Michelle Triconis. Senator Schoenhorn: I remember that my dad developed a new poisonous personality while she was around. Senator Schoenhorn: Michelle's careless behavior led to their affair, cheating on a wonderful mother who had done nothing wrong. Senator Schoenhorn: A family living on the opposite side of the country. Senator Schoenhorn: Michelle was the absolute last thing my family needed. Senator Schoenhorn: Throughout the divorce, when we had visitation with my dad, the court ordered that Michelle was not to be present. Senator Schoenhorn: However, she insisted that we did see her. Senator Schoenhorn: She insisted on making our family normal. Senator Schoenhorn: She put pressure on my dad to get the divorce over. Senator Schoenhorn: She made it clear to my dad that they had to do something. Senator Schoenhorn: She conspired to commit murder. Senator Schoenhorn: She conspired to commit tampering with fiscal evidence. Senator Schoenhorn: She tampered with fiscal evidence. Senator Schoenhorn: She hindered prosecution. Senator Schoenhorn: She has shown no remorse. Senator Schoenhorn: She has not cooperated. Senator Schoenhorn: She attempted to frame Pavel, an innocent and kind man. Senator Schoenhorn: My mother was a caring mother of five children, a loyal friend and sister, a lovely daughter. Senator Schoenhorn: My mom always had a dream to be grandmother, forgetting the names of our many children. Senator Schoenhorn: She will not have that. Senator Schoenhorn: Taking away a nurturing mother at such a young age is not something you, the court, can take lightly. Senator Schoenhorn: I can't go home to my mom and talk to her about my school day. Senator Schoenhorn: I can't listen in on any of her stories. Senator Schoenhorn: I can't crawl into her bed late at night. Senator Schoenhorn: I can't learn things from her. Senator Schoenhorn: Like when she taught me how to tie my shoelace the proper way. Senator Schoenhorn: She was my favorite person in the world, my role model. Senator Schoenhorn: She is still somewhere in my heart. Senator Schoenhorn: However, I will never be the same person as I was in Connecticut. Senator Schoenhorn: All this loss is because of Michelle. Senator Schoenhorn: I think she should serve the maximum sentence possible. Senator Schoenhorn: In the end, however, your decision and my statement are not about me or Michelle. Senator Schoenhorn: This is about serving justice for my mother, Jennifer Dulos. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you for your time. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[01:17:27] Speaker 3: Senator Schoenhorn: Next, I'd ask the court to hear from Caroline Buckley. Senator Schoenhorn: Caroline is a longtime friend of Jennifer and caregiver now to the children as well.
[01:17:39] Speaker 16: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you for the opportunity to address the court. Senator Schoenhorn: Jennifer was my friend for 12 years before her murder. Senator Schoenhorn: Our children are the same age and went to the same school together until she was forced to leave Farmington in 2017. Senator Schoenhorn: We celebrated births and birthdays together, school concerts and sports days. Senator Schoenhorn: I miss her every day. Senator Schoenhorn: In 2017, when Jennifer found out about Michelle Turconis, such was her fear of Fotis that she planned her escape. Senator Schoenhorn: She hid her belongings at my house before she fled. Senator Schoenhorn: She left a community of friends that loved her. Senator Schoenhorn: She left a school that her children loved and that the defendant subsequently enrolled her daughter in. Senator Schoenhorn: Throughout the following months, Jennifer was shocked at the behavior of Michelle Turconis. Senator Schoenhorn: Jennifer, honest to her core, was horrified at Michelle's belief that rules did not apply to her. Senator Schoenhorn: We witnessed this behavior throughout the trial. Senator Schoenhorn: As a result of Michelle Turconis' lies, Fotis Doulos was not initially arrested. Senator Schoenhorn: Living in Farmington meant that my family were located in close proximity to the defendant. Senator Schoenhorn: Every day, every day, we lived in fear. Senator Schoenhorn: We searched for answers and looked for clues for Jennifer. Senator Schoenhorn: Places that had warm memories of friendship and fun childhoods became the stuff of nightmares. Senator Schoenhorn: On a practical level in May 2019, it became clear that Jennifer's house belongings in New Canaan needed to be tended to. Senator Schoenhorn: Documents relating to her children within days of her murder needed to be retrieved from that house. Senator Schoenhorn: So seven days later, I went into that house. Senator Schoenhorn: I remember the five fish swimming in their bowls. Senator Schoenhorn: The kitchen with balloons left over from a celebration scattered about the fingerprint dust and blood stains. Senator Schoenhorn: Going into that garage where my lovely friend met the end of her existence is something that will haunt me for the rest of my life. Senator Schoenhorn: It was devastating to witness the evidence of suffering and unimaginable fear and pain Jennifer endured in her final moments. Senator Schoenhorn: Michelle Torconis' actions on May 24th and beyond have had heart crushing implications for her children. Senator Schoenhorn: Petros, Theodore, Christiane, Constantine, and Noel. Senator Schoenhorn: Throughout our friendship, we talked about hopes and dreams for our children. Senator Schoenhorn: Every day since their mother's murder, I have watched these dreams take shape. Senator Schoenhorn: But they are a little duller without her bright light, and they will always be that way because of the actions and very clear inaction of Michelle Torconis. Senator Schoenhorn: Since May 24th, 2019, I've thought about Jennifer every day. Senator Schoenhorn: I will be going through my normal day and inevitably be stopped in my tracks by the reminder that this happened to all of us. Senator Schoenhorn: My husband, my children, my siblings, my mom. Senator Schoenhorn: While I am grateful for the family we have created, the reality that this murder has taken place shocks me every day to my core. Senator Schoenhorn: And I still find it hard to fathom that Jennifer is gone. Senator Schoenhorn: I am left to navigate a world forever changed by the cruelty of the defendant's actions. Senator Schoenhorn: The brutality of Jennifer's death haunts me, leaving me with questions that will never be answered and wounds that will never fully heal. Senator Schoenhorn: I miss my friend deeply. Senator Schoenhorn: Her generosity of spirit, her optimism in human nature, her firm belief in her children, and her fierce enthusiasm for life. Senator Schoenhorn: Our life will never be the same. Senator Schoenhorn: Michelle, you know what your actions have affected families, not just in Connecticut, not just in the USA, but across the world. Senator Schoenhorn: Your decision in 2016 when you met Fotis was yours alone. Senator Schoenhorn: You could have walked away, you chose not to. Senator Schoenhorn: You chose to get involved with a married father of five. Senator Schoenhorn: You chose to move to Connecticut. Senator Schoenhorn: Know that we see you. Senator Schoenhorn: We saw you then, and we see you now for what you are. Senator Schoenhorn: There is no doubt in my mind that you should spend the rest of your life in jail for your actions. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you, Your Honor.
[01:22:05] Speaker 3: Senator Schoenhorn: That's the court next to hear from Noelle. Senator Schoenhorn: Noelle was eight. Senator Schoenhorn: She was eight years old the day her mother was murdered.
[01:22:20] Speaker 17: Senator Schoenhorn: Your Honor, Michelle Traconis and her actions have affected my life in many ways. Senator Schoenhorn: I've now lost the two people I've loved most in this world. Senator Schoenhorn: My mom will now never get to see me or my siblings grow up. Senator Schoenhorn: Something I had known she had always wanted. Senator Schoenhorn: I'm now growing up without my mother. Senator Schoenhorn: This is something no child should ever have to do. Senator Schoenhorn: Her life was cut short. Senator Schoenhorn: And Michelle was a contributor. Senator Schoenhorn: Finding closure is impossible, considering Michelle never gave any information Senator Schoenhorn: about where my mother is and what actually happened on May 24th, 2019. Senator Schoenhorn: Because of that day, I constantly feel like something worse is bound to happen to the people I love Senator Schoenhorn: and it could be my last moments with them at any minute. Senator Schoenhorn: I remember seeing these stories on the news and thinking they were just simply crazy stories Senator Schoenhorn: and it would never happen to my family or me. Senator Schoenhorn: But because it did, I feel scared that it will happen again and again to everyone I love most. Senator Schoenhorn: Most of all, I feel betrayed by Michelle. Senator Schoenhorn: I vividly remember her on ski trips when I was scared to sleep at night Senator Schoenhorn: or her picking me off my bunk bed because I was scared to go down on my own. Senator Schoenhorn: And I remember trusting her. Senator Schoenhorn: I don't understand how she can be so selfish and it scares me to put my trust in other people now Senator Schoenhorn: because of Michelle Draconis. Senator Schoenhorn: She has made my family and me suffer. Senator Schoenhorn: Because of this, I believe she should serve the consequences of her actions. Senator Schoenhorn: And I believe she should receive the maximum sentence. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you, Your Honor.
[01:24:15] Speaker 1: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[01:24:16] Speaker 3: Senator Schoenhorn: I would ask the court to hear from Carrie Luft. Carrie is a longtime friend of Jennifer. She's also a caregiver to the children and the Farber family spokesperson.
[01:24:30] Speaker 1: Senator Schoenhorn: After the court hears from Ms. Luft, we will take a morning recess.
[01:24:35] Speaker 3: Senator Schoenhorn: And Ms. Luft will conclude the speakers, Your Honor. The state would go into their remarks after the recess. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[01:24:42] Speaker ?: Senator Schoenhorn: Good morning, Your Honor.
[01:24:47] Speaker 2: Senator Schoenhorn: Good morning. Senator Schoenhorn: There's more to writing than just recording the facts. Senator Schoenhorn: There's what's called fiction, art. Senator Schoenhorn: Some people can turn their memories, the images that haunt them, into transcendence. Senator Schoenhorn: Freedom, almost. Senator Schoenhorn: The purging, it creates a lightness, a light. Senator Schoenhorn: Almost. Senator Schoenhorn: Jennifer Farber-Doulos wrote those lines in a play in 1996. Senator Schoenhorn: She was a gifted and singularly perceptive writer and my dearest friend for almost 30 years. Senator Schoenhorn: She was the maid of honor at my wedding. Senator Schoenhorn: And 12 years later, she stood with me at my husband's wake. Senator Schoenhorn: After his death, she was my emergency contact. Senator Schoenhorn: We talked to and wrote to each other about everything under the sun and supported Senator Schoenhorn: each other artistically, intellectually, emotionally, unconditionally. Senator Schoenhorn: When Jennifer redid her will in late March of 2017, she asked me to be her healthcare proxy. Senator Schoenhorn: She trusted me, as she put it, to know when to shut it down. Senator Schoenhorn: The scenarios I reluctantly considered at the time a terrible accident, Senator Schoenhorn: a terminal disease. Senator Schoenhorn: Do not even come close to the depraved, meticulously planned, brutal murder Senator Schoenhorn: of Jennifer in her own garage. Senator Schoenhorn: The desecration and disappearance of her body. Senator Schoenhorn: The discarding of her bloody clothing in garbage bags destined for a landfill. Senator Schoenhorn: Those images. Senator Schoenhorn: Everything I witnessed at the defendant's trial. Senator Schoenhorn: All the missing pieces of evidence and actions in between that we have to imagine swim in my mind every day. Senator Schoenhorn: Beginning on May 24, 2019, as you have heard, and continuing seamlessly for five years, Senator Schoenhorn: a group of us Jennifer's close friends have supported Gloria Farber in the raising of Jennifer's five children. Senator Schoenhorn: We have all overhauled our lives, our relationships, our careers to create a safe, trusted, loving home life for them. Senator Schoenhorn: I cannot imagine doing anything else. Senator Schoenhorn: I hope that gives a sense of the strength of Jennifer's love and friendship. Senator Schoenhorn: I tried to live out her values in my relationships with each of them, Senator Schoenhorn: especially those of empathy, kindness, love of literature and humor, and respect for their individuality. Senator Schoenhorn: I feel a duty to keep her memory and spirit alive for her children, Senator Schoenhorn: not only by relating stories, but through sharing books, films, plays, music, and experiences that spoke to her, Senator Schoenhorn: so that she can continue to reach them. Senator Schoenhorn: On that first weekend that Jennifer was missing, Senator Schoenhorn: I also became the media spokesperson for our group of family and friends. Senator Schoenhorn: I am not a public relations professional. Senator Schoenhorn: I am a writer and I was impelled to use my skills to represent our friend, Senator Schoenhorn: to be an insightful, trustworthy voice for her family and loved ones amid the increasing media interest. Senator Schoenhorn: Jennifer was a deeply private person. Senator Schoenhorn: The extensive media coverage, the digging into her life and the lives of her family members, Senator Schoenhorn: the proliferation of her photos online would have horrified her. Senator Schoenhorn: I feel compromised each time I issue a statement or participate in an interview, Senator Schoenhorn: yet I'm committed to being a voice for Jennifer and to protecting her family's privacy. Senator Schoenhorn: In so doing, I have become a public figure. Senator Schoenhorn: All of us are now characters in a public true crime narrative, which is an unsettling and bizarre experience. Senator Schoenhorn: I acknowledge that I have voluntarily assumed the role of spokesperson, but it takes a heavy toll. Senator Schoenhorn: Every time I am asked what it felt like when I am re-traumatized. Senator Schoenhorn: I must also hold back a large body of information. Senator Schoenhorn: During the defendant's trial, it was distressing to realize that most of my communications with Jennifer would be regarded as hearsay in a criminal court. Senator Schoenhorn: Jennifer began to express overt fears for her physical safety in the spring of 2017. Senator Schoenhorn: After Fotos Dulos announced his plans for the defendant to move to Farmington. Senator Schoenhorn: His behavior changed to become more physically aggressive and defiant toward Jennifer after he became involved with the defendant. Senator Schoenhorn: She showed up to tour Renbrook School in early April 2017, the school attended by Jennifer's children, a couple of weeks after Jennifer had learned of the affair. Senator Schoenhorn: In April 2018, she defied family court orders by touring New Canaan Country School, then attended by Jennifer's children. Senator Schoenhorn: This was not proactive legwork on behalf of her child. Senator Schoenhorn: These were acts of aggression toward Jennifer. Senator Schoenhorn: Because this information would not be admissible as evidence, I was not able to stand up for Jennifer to relay her experiences and voice her fears that the defendant was trying to replace her. Senator Schoenhorn: On May 24th 2019. Senator Schoenhorn: The defendant collaborated on the plan to kill Jennifer by transporting unlocking and operating her partner's phone while he murdered Jennifer in New Canaan. Senator Schoenhorn: Then she actively participated in the destruction of evidence which delayed the murder arrests until January 2020. Senator Schoenhorn: That delay enabled the introduction of a degrading line of argument and speculation put forth by Fotis Doulos' defense counsel that Jennifer had voluntarily disappeared abandoning her children. Senator Schoenhorn: This was slander suggesting that Jennifer was not only alive, but also deceitful, cunning and unspeakably callous. Senator Schoenhorn: The theory was picked up widely in the media and I had to defend a murder victim in the press. Senator Schoenhorn: The most conscientious person I have ever known who was unfailingly devoted to her children and loved them beyond compare. Senator Schoenhorn: The defendant repeated the theory that Jennifer had run away multiple times in her interviews with the investigators that was not a coincidence. Senator Schoenhorn: During the period from June 2019 to January 2020 we Jennifer's loved ones were not permitted to acknowledge that she was deceased. Senator Schoenhorn: As our spokesperson, I had to publicly sustain the fiction that she might be found alive, which was deeply dishonest and felt disrespectful of what Jennifer had endured. Senator Schoenhorn: We held a memorial for her in secret, tightly managed, fearful that the media would find out and report that the family believed Jennifer was dead. Senator Schoenhorn: The defendant's refusal to provide any information, even speculative, as to what was done with Jennifer's body is a sustained act of cruelty. Senator Schoenhorn: We are unable to bury Jennifer or to mourn her properly. Senator Schoenhorn: I lie awake at night, recreating in my mind the log of actions and locations on May 24th and the days surrounding it, trying to piece together where Jennifer is. Senator Schoenhorn: For the defendant Jennifer's murder was not enough. Senator Schoenhorn: She has continued to disparage and degrade Jennifer over the five years following. Senator Schoenhorn: From her interviews with the investigators in the summer of 2019 to her actions in criminal court in 2024. Senator Schoenhorn: She has repeatedly insisted that Jennifer was sick. Senator Schoenhorn: On February 15th 2024 during the criminal trial proceedings in this very courtroom. Senator Schoenhorn: I witnessed the defendant displaying on her laptop in very large type with the intent that it be readable from a distance. Senator Schoenhorn: A sealed family court document that was stricken from the record. Senator Schoenhorn: Earlier that same afternoon I heard the defendant state aloud in English while walking out during a recess for everyone within earshot to hear. Senator Schoenhorn: She was sick. Senator Schoenhorn: Followed by a psychiatric diagnosis. Senator Schoenhorn: Even at her own trial at which she did not take the stand, the defendant was using underhanded provocative methods to espouse Doulos' defense theory. Senator Schoenhorn: Her continued insistence that Jennifer was sick indicates the following to me. Senator Schoenhorn: After that discredited document had failed to get them what they wanted in family court, which was custody of the children, Senator Schoenhorn: The defendant and her partner were still depending on it for their defense to support the notion that Jennifer had run away. Senator Schoenhorn: These actions by the defendant occurred weeks after Jennifer's blood saturated shirt her brassiere dyed maroon with her own blood both garments cut down the front were presented as evidence. Senator Schoenhorn: I urge you to apply the maximum sentencing to the defendant. Senator Schoenhorn: She wanted to erase and replace Jennifer Farber Doulos, and she very nearly succeeded. Senator Schoenhorn: She believes that the rules do not apply to her, whether the protocol of a courtroom or regard for human life. Senator Schoenhorn: It is she who is deceitful, cunning and unspeakably callous. Senator Schoenhorn: When she conspired to murder Jennifer, she gave no thought to the five children, young people she knew well and professed to love, who would be torn from their mother and she from them forever. Senator Schoenhorn: In a play Jennifer wrote more than 30 years ago, a character says to herself. Senator Schoenhorn: I have this dream that keeps me going. Senator Schoenhorn: I go downstairs and there she is in a bassinet under the shelves. Senator Schoenhorn: I reach in, pick her up. Senator Schoenhorn: She is heavy as I lift her. Senator Schoenhorn: She opens her eyes. Senator Schoenhorn: They're brown like mine. Senator Schoenhorn: Like hers. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you for your time. Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[01:36:25] Speaker 3: Senator Schoenhorn: Perhaps that would be a good time for a break, Your Honor.
[01:36:30] Speaker 1: Senator Schoenhorn: We are going to take a morning recess. Senator Schoenhorn: What the court will indicate is that you should heed the direction of Chief Suda as to how to leave the court. Senator Schoenhorn: We'll stand in a recess. Senator Schoenhorn: All. Senator Schoenhorn: Senator Manning.
[01:36:52] Speaker 3: Senator Manning: Yes, Your Honor. Senator Manning: Thank you. Senator Manning: Your Honor, I can't express the pain that Jennifer Doulos' family and friends go through and are reminded of every day. Senator Manning: We have only heard from Jennifer's family, friends, and children for a few moments today, but you can see the impact of having someone like Jennifer as their mother has had on them. Senator Manning: They are strong, they are intelligent, and they are kind. Senator Manning: Jennifer's friends coming together to dedicate their lives to helping these children grow and continue Jennifer's memory. Senator Manning: This shows how amazing Jennifer Doulos truly was to inspire such loyalty and such friendship. Senator Manning: She can never be forgotten or replaced, even though the defendant Michelle Triconis tried. Senator Manning: And she tried in the most evil and heinous way by agreeing to commit murder. Senator Manning: I mean, think about that. Senator Manning: You agree, you have a conversation, you talk about it, and you agree. Senator Manning: You plan to kill somebody to take a life. Senator Manning: The hatred. Senator Manning: The defendant must have had for Jennifer Doulos to willingly conspire to commit murder. Senator Manning: Remember the words conveyed by a witness during the trial as to how the defendant even referred to Jennifer Doulos. Senator Manning: As a bitch who should be buried next to the dog. Senator Manning: These children in 2019, the children your honor heard from today. Senator Manning: Petros, remember, was 13. Senator Manning: Theodore was 13. Senator Manning: Constantine was 10. Senator Manning: Christiane was 10. Senator Manning: And Noel. Senator Manning: Noel was eight. Senator Manning: She was eight years old when the defendant conspired with Fotos Doulos to kill their mother. Senator Manning: And some of the things your honor heard from the family are proven to be true. Senator Manning: The defendant knew these children for years, for years before 2019 she professed to care for them. Senator Manning: I think about Noel story about trusting. Senator Manning: The defendant. Senator Manning: And at the same time that she professed to care for these children, she made the conscious decision. Senator Manning: With Fotos Doulos to take their mother's life. Senator Manning: Knowing you are going to inflict unimaginable pain, suffering and loss on five small children, and still making that decision. Senator Manning: Still deciding to commit murder. Senator Manning: Then covering it up and destroying evidence. Senator Manning: This resulted in so much pain that is still to this day. Senator Manning: And not with no closure in sight because Jennifer's family still doesn't know the location of Jennifer's body. Senator Manning: And make no mistake, we will never stop looking. Senator Manning: Jennifer's murder was so premeditated so planned everything was planned out from answering the phone acting as an alibi. Senator Manning: To assisting with the disposal of Jennifer's bloodied shirt and bra, along with the other items used in the crime in the garbage on the streets of harford. Senator Manning: The defendant willingly agreed to answer the alibi call to walk around and carry photos photos photos his phone that morning and to participate in the cleanup at 80 mountain spring road and light the fires. Senator Manning: And days later, she willingly agreed to continue this cover up by writing a false alibi script. Senator Manning: And at Russell speeders by assisting in further destruction of evidence in the vehicle that was used in the homicide. Senator Manning: And all those lies. Senator Manning: All those lies she perpetuated with the police. Senator Manning: She did those acts on her own. Senator Manning: Just like she willingly agreed. Senator Manning: to murder Jennifer duos. Senator Manning: it's the motive, your honor. Senator Manning: The facts of the case that came out during the trial. Senator Manning: The content the defendant has shown. Senator Manning: And the cruelty that she has imposed on so many people which mandates a substantial amount of incarceration. Senator Manning: The motive, the reason the defendant agreed with photo studios that Jennifer needed to die was clearly brought out in the trial. Senator Manning: The defendant wanted her dead. Senator Manning: It is only with Jennifer's death with all the court hearings and custody hearings stop. Senator Manning: Remember the defendants own words that she endured two years of torture it's been like a nightmare. Senator Manning: Then she would finally be able to live in a beautiful home in Farmington photos duos would have all the children in his home. Senator Manning: Michelle draconis would finally get everything she wanted. Senator Manning: She could replace Jennifer. Senator Manning: But in order for that to happen Jennifer had to die. Senator Manning: William Shakespeare wrote. Senator Manning: There is no sure foundation set on blood, no certain life achieved by others death. Senator Manning: That quotation ring so true here, because the defendant thought she could build her life on Jennifer's death. Senator Manning: The defendant wanted so badly to replace Jennifer. Senator Manning: That in April 2017 before Jennifer had even moved out of the family house that's when she toured the school that the children will do those children were attending. Senator Manning: And when Jennifer moved to New Canaan the defendant again toward the school. Senator Manning: New Canaan country school where the children were attended, even when she still resided in Farmington miles away. Senator Manning: She moved into the house at Ford Jefferson crossing a house photos and Jennifer built together paid for by Jennifer's family. Senator Manning: She worked at for group of business finance by Jennifer's father and she immersed herself in the homeowners association in the neighborhood trying to replace Jennifer. Senator Manning: And the doulos children, even when she wasn't supposed to be near them during visits. Senator Manning: She was the children were given the impossible and cruel task of lying to their mother. Senator Manning: The defendants cold heartedness her selfishness. Senator Manning: It absolutely has no bounds. Senator Manning: But it didn't work. Senator Manning: She wasn't able to replace Jennifer Jennifer fought back in court dates and hearings. Senator Manning: She fought to protect her children and that envy and jealousy that was so in Michelle draconis his heart it turned to hatred and blame. Senator Manning: And that is when this agreement to happen. Senator Manning: The defendant did more than just agree to commit this act, though. Senator Manning: She assisted in that she assisted in acting as an alibi in covering up the murder, making these five children wonder day in day out what happened to their mother. Senator Manning: In the beginning, hoping their mother would come home, all the while the defendant knew she was never coming home. Senator Manning: The motive of these charges your honor that she has been convicted of is clear, it is heinous callous and it warrants substantial incarceration. Senator Manning: Now a jury of her peers have found Michelle traconis guilty of each and every count i'm not going to go over the six weeks of trial your honor heard the testimony. Senator Manning: Heard you sat through all the defendants interviews her multiple lies her misdirection and her manipulation. Senator Manning: Your honor described it at an earlier hearing as eight hours of inconsistencies on material issues in a cascade of circumstantial evidence. Senator Manning: For sentencing today, I want to highlight some specific things that came out in the jury trial that showed the manipulation and pervasive cruelty of the defendant and I want to be clear on one thing. Senator Manning: We're not here to sentence photos doulos. Senator Manning: The defendant is faced with 45 years photos doulos clearly would be before the court in the state's opinion facing a lot more time. Senator Manning: The state is basing its recommendation on the defendants own actions her agreement to commit this heinous act and the defendants lack of remorse in our lack of acceptance of responsibility. Senator Manning: The actions in 2019 of a 44 year old professional educated woman with hate in her heart in a capacity to conspire to kill. Senator Manning: The cascade of evidence, as your honor called it some of the facts. Senator Manning: The defendant manipulated photos his phone to act as an alibi as he murdered Jennifer duos. Senator Manning: All to ensure she answered the call the alibi call the alibi call that was on photos is script as if it was he that answered that call. Senator Manning: The defendant participated in the back and forth at 80 mountain spring road and for Jefferson crossing and later discarded evidence on the harford city streets and garbage cans. Senator Manning: The three separate fires at for Jefferson crossing a memorial day weekend when the defendant was home. Senator Manning: And the disposal of the bags of evidence in harford tampering with evidence. Senator Manning: You know that sounds so simple that word tampering we hear it all the time in criminal court tampering. Senator Manning: When, if you look at the facts of this case it's so much more cruel than that, because what did she tamper with. Senator Manning: Bloodstained gloves bloody poncho bloody towel altered license plate in the sewer a blood soaked bra. Senator Manning: Slice down the middle blood soaked shirt sliced down the front and the zip ties the bloody zip ties that were found with them what was done to Jennifer that zip ties were needed. Senator Manning: Only those who agreed to commit the act may know we won't ever know. Senator Manning: Days later. Senator Manning: When the police were looking for Jennifer the defendant was writing an alibi script. Senator Manning: And on May 29 2019. Senator Manning: She and photo studios took the Tacoma to the car wash. Senator Manning: At Russell speeders in order to destroy any evidence contained within it. Senator Manning: And looking at the garage at 69 wells lane at Jennifer's home a home she had just returned to from dropping off her children. Senator Manning: What could Jennifer have been experienced in the final moments of her life. Senator Manning: We get to ask that what did she experience. Senator Manning: Sheer terror and desperation come to mind. Senator Manning: And of course, as a loving and devoted mother her children. Senator Manning: I think about what Jennifer must have felt and thought as she was dying all the blood. Senator Manning: Indicating a brutal murder. Senator Manning: If she was zip tied alive with the bloody zip ties. Senator Manning: We don't know. Senator Manning: We don't know exactly what Jennifer felt went through or was thinking, but we do know what the defendant thought. Senator Manning: Because the very next day. Senator Manning: Very next day. Senator Manning: The defendant got her hair done. Senator Manning: She laughed and she smiled with her hairdresser. Senator Manning: And later joking at the pond with her friends. Senator Manning: This was in her interview. Senator Manning: She joked about having if she can have sex with photos while in jail. Senator Manning: Jokes. Senator Manning: We know what the defendant thought. Senator Manning: All the while five children are home scared and suffering. Senator Manning: I spoke about the motive your honor the hatred that caused the defendant to commit this crime in the egregious and awful facts. Senator Manning: The defendant has never accepted responsibility for her actions. Senator Manning: I'm also cognizant of today's D. Senator Manning: Today is May 31st, 2024. Senator Manning: It was five years ago today on May 31st, 2019 that detective view in with the Connecticut State Police sees the defendants phone and began the execution of a search warrant for Jefferson crossing. Senator Manning: On May 31st, 2019, it was the first day the defendant became aware that were the police were closing in on her, too, and she had a choice that day. Senator Manning: To cooperate to tell the truth to accept responsibility and she made a conscious decision not to do so. Senator Manning: Instead, she perpetuated a lie after lie after lie. Senator Manning: And here we are five years later. Senator Manning: All there have been our lies. Senator Manning: Multiple lies misdirection and manipulation of law enforcement. Senator Manning: There is no photos doulos over her shoulder manipulating her. Senator Manning: She played her role to the fullest on her own. Senator Manning: In her three interviews to the police. Senator Manning: She tried to portray the facade of the dumb girlfriend believe those were her words. Senator Manning: This from a professional woman with all these degrees and accomplishments that the defense presents numerous letters from people who have interacted with her supported her. Senator Manning: The dichotomy presented shows not only the lies in the facade she played in these interviews with law enforcement, but also that she can clearly play a role that is expected of her. Senator Manning: Now I don't stand here and minimize community support is such an important and treasured thing. Senate Manning: As your honor can see from the Farber family community that has come together. Senator Manning: And the letters the numerous letters written to the to the court about the defendant. Senator Manning: What's interesting to me that I found after reading them and I did read them. Senator Manning: Is they all essentially say the same thing. Senator Manning: And none of these people from her family to the people she was at the cookie sale with people she water skied with her daughter's friends so just a few of the people that she wrote letters on behalf of the defendant. Senator Manning: None of these people ever stood in the way of something she wanted. Senator Manning: That was only Jennifer. Senator Manning: Jennifer doulos is the only person that ever stood in Michelle traconis his way. Senator Manning: And look what happened to Jennifer. Senator Manning: The motive facts and the defendants true feelings she has not shown remorse all she has shown as contempt. Senator Manning: The lies show a complete contempt for the criminal justice system for law enforcement for the law for Jennifer and her loved ones. Senator Manning: And what's interesting about the lies is how pervasive and plan they are how they're actually about important things to the case she knew exactly what she was saying. Senator Manning: Her contempt for law enforcement was clear her contempt for the trial was clear she's actually charged with contempt of court for her actions in the courtroom during the trial. Senator Manning: displaying the custody report on her laptop angled to the camera in violation of the courts order, this is the true Michelle traconis. Senator Manning: And just by nature, a guilty verdict for hindering prosecution hindering prosecution is the epitome of contempt for the criminal justice system. Senator Manning: All these things mandate a substantial period of incarceration. Senator Manning: But I want to talk about one last thing before I end my remarks. Senator Manning: And that is the cruelty, she has shown Jennifer's family. Senator Manning: From the first interview with the police she attempted to perpetuate this false narrative this lie that Jennifer was sick, the lie that Jennifer would abandon her children and run away. Senator Manning: Again, from the very beginning, the first interview, June 2, an attempted manipulation that continued throughout the trial. Senator Manning: The defendant knew full well that Jennifer had not run away. Senator Manning: In fact, the defendant not only conspired to murder Jennifer duo she then assisted in the disposal of her bloody clothing. Senator Manning: And then attempted to manipulate law enforcement by coldly implying that Jennifer just probably ran away. Senator Manning: The cruelty to do this to imply to five children that their mother would abandon them, knowing she was already dead. Senator Manning: It amazes me that someone could make that evil decision to murder someone then disparage the deceased victim over and over again for years, making things worse for those sadly left behind. Senator Manning: The hatred anger and jealousy towards Jennifer doulos she will never let her rest this is cruelty. Senator Manning: The state respectfully request the court sentence the defendant. Senator Manning: To a maximum period of incarceration. Senator Manning: I listened to the family this morning and hearing their pain. Senator Manning: I don't think I could stand here and ask for anything less. Senator Manning: She gave Jennifer a death sentence. Senator Manning: So we are asking the court to give the defendant a life sentence 45 years. Senator Manning: The defendant over the course of months and years has never let Jennifer doulos rest. Senator Manning: Hopefully, with this sentence. Senator Manning: The court does. Senator Manning: Thank you. Senator Manning: Thank you.
[01:54:27] Speaker ?: Senator Manning:
[01:54:31] Speaker 1: Senator Manning: Thank you, your honor.
[01:54:37] Speaker 4: Senator Manning: I'm not going to quote from the 64 letters that have been presented to the court. Senator Manning: I assume your honor had an opportunity to read them. Senator Manning: Yes. Senator Manning: And unlike the state. Senator Manning: For my purposes. Senator Manning: I provided those to the state. Senator Manning: Days ago, so they could read them. Senator Manning: I was not given the same privilege. Senator Manning: With regard to the statements until moments before we started today. Senator Manning: Not going to address them. Senator Manning: I believe that they were heartfelt. Senator Manning: The statements that were made. Senator Manning: And I'm certainly not going to address any of those statements. Senator Manning: I do. Senator Manning: I do. Senator Manning: However, before I ask for certain comments to me by family and friends, just want to note that there are, as I counted, approximately 44 people present in support here of my client, Michelle Traconis. Senator Manning: They come from Florida, Connecticut, other states, from Europe, and nine who came in from Latin America. Senator Manning: There are a few that are going to be presented who couldn't fly in. Senator Manning: So they're bringing them up. Senator Manning: I do, however, before I ask for certain comments to me by family and friends, just want to note that there are, as I counted, approximately 44 people present in support here of my client, Michelle Traconis. Senator Manning: They come from Florida, Connecticut, other states from Europe, and nine who came in from Latin America. Senator Manning: There are a few that are going to be presented who couldn't fly in. Senator Manning: So briefly, they made statements that I'm going to present to the court, brief statements by their video presentation, comments to the court. Senator Manning: But I do want to correct a false narrative that I believe the state has suggested, and which is sort of suggested by the pre-sentence report. Senator Manning: And that is either that Michelle Traconis was the responsible for the breakup of the marriage to Jennifer Dulos with Fotis. Senator Manning: Or that she wanted to replace Jennifer Dulos and become the parent of these children. Senator Manning: Nothing would be further from the truth. Senator Manning: And just I'll indicate, as part of the information, the discovery that was provided, we have all of these text messages from Fotis Dulos' phone going back for years. Senator Manning: And in those messages are all the text messages between Michelle Traconis going back to 2016, where she's expressing hesitation. Senator Manning: You want me to move up there, but how is Jennifer going to look at this? Is this really something I should do? Senator Manning: And Fotis Dulos repeatedly is saying that his wife is fine with that, they've moved on, their marriage has been broken up amicably, and yes, everything will be fine if you come up here with your daughter. Senator Manning: We'll get you enrolled in the school, the children will be friends, etc, etc. Senator Manning: So any suggestion that this was caused by Michelle Traconis is not a true picture. Senator Manning: She also, I would also note that Fotis Dulos personally told, and it's not relevant for the trial, but personally told Michelle's family and mutual friends that it was an amicable divorce and that Michelle was coming up here and that his wife was fine with that. Senator Manning: So I just want to indicate that because there's been a suggestion that somehow Michelle was responsible for the breakup of this fine marriage, which is simply untrue and simply the opposite is the evidence that was not presented at trial, but is presented through the discovery material. Senator Manning: The second thing that was just suggested by the state is that somehow Michelle Traconis wanted to quote "replace" unquote Jennifer Dulos. Senator Manning: Keep in mind that it was Jennifer Dulos who surreptitiously moved down to New Canaan before Michelle Traconis moved up here, when she found out that Fotis told her that he was in love with Michelle and he was going to have her come up here. Senator Manning: He may have told his lawyer that he had this grandiose idea that would be great if his wife lived in the same house with Michelle and their kids could all be living in one happy house, but that was Fotis Dulos's fantasy, not Michelle Traconis at no time. Senator Manning: Did she present that or did she even suggest that that was something that she wanted? Senator Manning: I just note that the state did keep out of the court rather, did keep out and the state objected to a lot of the divorce material coming in, but I've read through every divorce pleading and those transcripts that were not sealed by the divorce court. Senator Manning: And I indicate that Michelle Traconis had no involvement in any of the things that were going on in the divorce proceeding. She only knew what Fotis told her, what Fotis' lawyers told her. And that was borne out by the testimony of the attorneys. Senator Manning: But I want the court to be aware that any suggestion that there was some kind of scheme to replace Jennifer Dulos by Michelle and that she wanted to somehow be the cause of a split up in the of a marriage is not borne out by any facts. That's just pure speculation. Senator Manning: I also want to point out that despite what I heard today, Michelle didn't just speculate about what might have happened to Jennifer Dulos. She personally went out with the police in hot muggy weather, going through the woods, showing the police places where they traveled, where they went through with motorcycles, trying to help them. Senator Manning: She drew maps and gave them places where she knew that Fotis Dulos had gone, properties that he owned, places that he went, in order to assist with that kind of searches. Senator Manning: So to the extent that there has been a suggestion that she didn't even try to help discover the location, or the suggestion that she has any clue as to what happened to Jennifer Dulos, the evidence, I would submit, points to the opposite. Senator Manning: That is what happened to her ultimately. Right? I'm not here to try and convince the court to overturn the verdict. I made my motion. The court rejected that. Senator Manning: And it will just be its preserved issue. Maybe another court will have a second look at it. But I understand your honor's position, so I'm certainly not going to argue that. I did, however, want the court at least to have a clear picture as to what some of these peripheral issues are that had been suggested by the pre-sentence report. Senator Manning: I also am struck by the fact that Fotis Dulos' name almost didn't come up at all. This was, to a large extent, discussion about Fotis Dulos' involvement and what he did, the actions he took. Senator Manning: And I will note that any reference by Michelle Traconis to the Dr. Herman report during those video interviews, and again, the court ruled that that couldn't come in, but to the extent it was discussed, it was what Fotis chose to tell her about that. Senator Manning: She wasn't stating, I believe that Jennifer Dulos had mental health issues. She's saying that's what Fotis told me was going on. At no point during the five years, or four years and a half, that I was involved in this case, and I would say even my predecessor, did we, and that is Michelle Traconis' defense team, ever suggest that Jennifer Dulos ran away? Senator Manning: Again, that's Fotis Dulos' lawyer who made that suggestion. That's what the press ran with, and that was then made into some kind of a lifetime event movie. That was not Michelle Traconis who did that. Senator Manning: So, before I go into anything else that I want to say, there are a number of people that I want to have speak to the court, and I'm going to begin with Michelle Traconis' pastor, Pastor Christopher Solomon. Senator Manning: I'm going to ask them to come up at this time, and maybe if you can come to the podium. And I'll just note that people should identify themselves and where they're from.
[02:02:59] Speaker 1: Senator Manning: What the court will indicate is that there's no need to approach the podium. Senator Manning: Okay. Senator Manning: All of the speakers can speak from council table.
[02:03:08] Speaker 4: Senator Manning: Fine. I'll just make sure the microphone is pulled over.
[02:03:14] Speaker 18: Senator Manning: Good almost afternoon. We're on the edge there. Senator Manning: I am the Reverend Christopher Solomini, and I appreciate this opportunity to share with you my statement regarding Michelle Traconis. Senator Manning: I've served as the senior minister of Avon Congregational Church for over five years. Senator Manning: Since 2019, when Michelle and her family literally knocked on the door, the members of our church have been their sanctuary and their spiritual faith family. Senator Manning: My years of study at Yale University with a Master of Divinity have been augmented by clinical pastoral education. Senator Manning: This is a rigorous process of chaplaincy, along with personal psychological studies and backgrounds. Senator Manning: Prior to ordination in the United Church of Christ, I served on the governing board of the Haddam-Killingworth Youth and Family Services. Senator Manning: While working at Regional School District 17 and years before that in Florida, I served as a guardian ad litem, providing my assessments to the court from interviews with families, doctors, psychologists, and children in order to recommend custody placement for the Department of Children and Families. Senator Manning: Seeking spiritual support and faith-filled fellowship, even though English was not her first language, Michelle participated regularly in both worship services and activities of mission and fellowship. Senator Manning: When her parents and sisters visited Connecticut, they too participated. Senator Manning: I wish the world could know the Michelle I know, one not defined in media bites, scribal gloss, and an agenda-driven caricature. Senator Manning: Almost immediately, Michelle volunteered on a weekly basis to help with some ministry, regularly cooking large meals for a Hartford soup kitchen, preparing for our monthly Farmington Valley First Friday dinners, Senator Manning: even helping convert and paint an old space at our church for a new ministry. Senator Manning: Michelle's disposition is exceptional as a helper, and one who cheerfully and tirelessly worked beside church members young and old. Senator Manning: Over the course of months, with her involvement with mission work, attending Bible studies, and helping in any way she could, Michelle became a beloved and important member of our faith family. Senator Manning: She often shared stories of how, in her youth, she assisted her father, a physician, in third world locales in South America where he performed heart surgery on infants. Senator Manning: Michelle also spoke of helping feed the homeless and destitute in Caracas. Senator Manning: Her heart is big for all of God's created, especially for children and those afflicted with disability. Senator Manning: Empathy and compassion are at the center of her being, in my estimation. Senator Manning: She often attended my weekly coffee with the pastor at a local coffee shop. Senator Manning: Any number of church members, depending on their schedules, could pop in and out. Senator Manning: I watched carefully as Michelle tenderly cared for aging members facing scary health diagnoses. Senator Manning: I watched her grieve with and hold close church members whose beloved family died. Senator Manning: Michelle was always especially affirming and loving to young children and genuinely affectionate to all. Senator Manning: The relationship between a pastor and a parishioner in crisis is a sacred one, with authenticity and truth-telling the hallmarks of trust-building. Senator Manning: In the inner sanctum of my pastoral visits with Michelle, I've heard everything she feels and thinks. Senator Manning: Her feelings about all involved, her deep sorrow and grief. Senator Manning: I've heard her prayers for Jennifer and her children and all her anxieties related to this harrowing ordeal. Senator Manning: I watched her react with grace despite the constant media attacks from a public who doesn't know her. Senator Manning: I have dined often with Michelle and her family, listening to life stories, learning about their Venezuelan culture, witnessing their lament, grief, and abject despair over this tragedy that devastated all their lives. Senator Manning: A second career pastor who considers myself nobody's fool, I was pastoral yet didn't trust blindly. Senator Manning: In fact, I had nothing to gain and perhaps on many levels much to lose by offering any pastoral counseling to Michelle or opening the doors of my church to her. Senator Manning: Yet today I can honestly say before God, and indeed the world, Michelle Troconis is a woman of not only substantive character, but with an ethic and kind heartedness that is almost singular. Senator Manning: Michelle always spoke with compassionate candor, dissolving often tearfully with empathy for the doulos children and Mrs. Farber's loss and suffering. Senator Manning: She never played a sympathy card, even though she herself was seemingly losing her own life with the ability to live with her daughter. Senator Manning: She never asked for favors or for any financial assistance from the church or from church members. Senator Manning: And to my knowledge, she never received any. Senator Manning: My life is dedicated to ministering, burying, marrying, teaching, and holding the hands of many as they pass from this world. Senator Manning: The real stuff of the world. Senator Manning: I'm rooted in God's world and believe in justice that offers the greatest good. Senator Manning: I myself and so many in my congregation have and will continue to pray for Jennifer's children, her mother, her sister, and all her family and friends who have been robbed of a future with Jennifer. Senator Manning: I also pray the court seeking God's guidance will show mercy in today's sentence to mitigate the immense suffering already endured by this tragedy and see it fit and right in the name of the highest justice and for the good of society. Senator Manning: To restore Michelle to her daughter and to a productive place in our world community as soon as it is possible. Senator Manning: I don't say this lightly and with the full knowledge of all the circumstances at hand. Senator Manning: I believe wholeheartedly Michelle to be a person of extraordinary good character and a faith-filled person I would trust with my very own life. Senator Manning: Thank you for your service to our community and may God bless you. Senator Manning: Thank you.
[02:10:20] Speaker 4: Senator Manning: I'm going to call on Dr. Carlos Troconis to speak next, please.
[02:10:31] Speaker ?: Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Your Honor, Josh Kevin Randolph.
[02:10:36] Speaker 19: Dr. Carlos Troconis: I am Carlos Troconis, an American trained pediatric cardiac surgeon mostly dedicated to altruistic medicine, particularly on underprivileged children with hard work. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I am Carlos Troconis, an American trained pediatric cardiac surgeon mostly dedicated to altruistic medicine, particularly on underprivileged children with hard work. Dr. Carlos Troconis: With my efforts and the Heart to Heart Foundation, thousands of children's life has been saved. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I am here on behalf of my daughter, Michelle, who, although born in Memphis, Tennessee, grew up in Venezuela, where English is not our first language. Dr. Carlos Troconis: And from now on, I will try to do my best. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I am a proud father of four daughters and grandfather of eight American grandchildren. Dr. Carlos Troconis: From a young age, Michelle joined me on medical mission to indigent, Dr. Carlos Troconis: Neglected, indigent areas like the Amazon. Dr. Carlos Troconis: She displayed great empathy and compassion with any patient while they heal. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I come from a family of seven siblings. Dr. Carlos Troconis: My oldest sister, Laura, was born with an intellectual disability and was educated Dr. Carlos Troconis: in a special needs school, co-founded by my father, pioneering special education in Venezuela back in the '60s. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Michelle was very close to her aunt Laura. Dr. Carlos Troconis: And this bond, along with the practice on the medical missions, inspired her to study special education. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Michelle also developed a passion for outdoor life and animals, particularly horses. Dr. Carlos Troconis: This led her to specialize in equine therapy, assisting children and adults with special needs. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Despite the divorce between her mother, Marisela, and me, my daughter's life has remained unaffected by our separation. Dr. Carlos Troconis: We handle it with mutual respect and understanding, ensuring that our daughter's upbringing was stable and loving. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Michelle's ability to maintain positive relationships and her resilience through personal challenges were shaped by the way her mother and I manage Dr. Carlos Troconis: our divorce. Dr. Carlos Troconis: The amicable handling of our divorce provided Michelle with a strong foundation and the understanding that even in difficult times, maintaining respect and cooperation is crucial. Dr. Carlos Troconis: In 2006, Michelle became a mother. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Since then, she has devoted her life to supporting her daughter's dream of becoming an Olympic champion. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Through dedication, hard work, discipline, perseverance, and love, my granddaughters achieved her dream, ranking in the top 10 for the United States team at the Winter Youth Olympic Games 2024 in South Korea. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Even though Michelle was on trial, her steady support was crucial to her daughter's success. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Regardless of the separation from her daughter's father, Michelle ensured that her daughter's life remains stable and loving too. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Drained from her own experience with our respectful handling of our divorce, Michelle maintained a nurturing and supportive environment for her daughter's life. Dr. Carlos Troconis: This separation did not affect her upbringing, neither. Dr. Carlos Troconis: And both parents continue to prioritize her well-being, focusing on her education and family values. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Our family has faced painful difficulties. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Michelle's confinement has been overwhelming, especially for her teenager daughter, Dr. Carlos Troconis: who needs her mother guidance and support. Dr. Carlos Troconis: These past five years have been the hardest of my life. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I have left behind everything I love, including my patients, to focus on the legal process and support of my daughter. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Through this heartbreaking process, coping with difficult challenges. Dr. Carlos Troconis: My heart goes to the doulos children who lost both of their parents. Dr. Carlos Troconis: As a father, plead with you, Josh Randall, to show mercy in my daughter's sentence, given the chance she could continue to be a valuable member of society, providing care and restorative therapies to children and adults. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I hope that these examples of Michelle's compassionate character I have shared will consider in your decision. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Respectful Dr. Carlos Troconis. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you.
[02:16:57] Speaker 4: Dr. Carlos Troconis: I'd like to call on Michelle's mom right now, Maricela Arriaza's speech, please.
[02:17:10] Speaker 20: Dr. Maricela Arriaza: Your Honor, Judge Randall, good afternoon. Dr. Maricela Arriaza: Good afternoon. Dr. Maricela Arriaza: My name is Maricela Arriaza, and I am Michelle's mother. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I come before you today with a heavy heart filled with deep sadness and much emotion, not only as a mother, but as a clinical psychologist who completed a master's degree in Memphis, Tennessee. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Michi, a nickname Michelle's family and close friends called her, she was a twin. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Her twin brother sadly died as a baby. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Losing a baby, a child, is devastating pain that leaves a hollow mark. Dr. Carlos Troconis: You might imagine the extra love and special care her father and I poured upon her. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Michi and all our daughters were raised to be respectful and to be hard workers. Dr. Carlos Troconis: We knew coming from another country was important, these traits were, and all our girls have made us very proud. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Raised also with a strong faith, they are known in their communities for their sweetness and caring love for all. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Michi, then a teenager, saw the additional burden I had to handle and support me in any way she could. Dr. Carlos Troconis: She did this by helping with her sister's homework and after school activities while I continue to work long hours at the clinic to support them. Dr. Carlos Troconis: My goal has always been to instill a solid balance of both a diligent work ethic along with family values into all my daughters. Dr. Carlos Troconis: And I believe her father and I succeeded in this goal. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Motherhood is Michi's everything. Dr. Carlos Troconis: This is evident in how she raised her daughter, instilling in her our family values and a love for one another that she learned from her childhood. Dr. Carlos Troconis: My granddaughter, now a responsible teenager, an excellent student, is a testament of Michi's dedication and constant care over these 17 years. Dr. Carlos Troconis: For these reasons, the circumstances we all find ourselves in today are very difficult. Dr. Carlos Troconis: When Michi met Fotis Dulos, he presented himself to all of us as a family-oriented man going through an amicable divorce. Dr. Carlos Troconis: He convinced all of us of his good intentions. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Knowing how a friendly separation can be as witness by me and her father, Michi believed Fotis and had no reason to doubt him. Dr. Carlos Troconis: However, we were all deceived by Fotis at this trial, revealed a man vastly different from whom we thought we had met. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Had I known the danger Michi was in, I would have immediately removed my daughter and granddaughter from his presence when I arrived in Connecticut on May 30, 2019. Dr. Carlos Troconis: My heart breaks for the Dulos children and all who suffer from this loss. Dr. Carlos Troconis: My thoughts and prayers are with them every single day. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Your Honor, today I stand before you enduring the hardship of misplaced trust in a man who betrayed many. Dr. Carlos Troconis: This story sadly ended in ways that left us broken and devastated. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I am here to plead for your understanding and mercy for my daughter Michelle, Dr. Carlos Troconis: who would never, never knowingly put her child or anyone at risk. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you very much. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you.
[02:21:37] Speaker ?: Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you.
[02:21:39] Speaker 4: Dr. Carlos Troconis: I would like to call on Eleanor Howard, please. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Sandra Little. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Sandra Little, I'm sorry. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Good afternoon Judge Randolph.
[02:21:51] Speaker ?: Dr. Carlos Troconis: Good afternoon. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I thank the court for hearing me as I speak in support of my friend Michelle.
[02:21:51] Speaker 4: Dr. Carlos Troconis: My name is Sandra Lytle, and I've known Michelle for four and a half
[02:21:54] Speaker ?: years. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I'm sorry. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Good afternoon Judge Randolph. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Good afternoon.
[02:21:59] Speaker 21: Dr. Carlos Troconis: I thank the court for hearing me as I speak in support of my friend Michelle. Dr. Carlos Troconis: My name is Sandra Lytle, and I've known Michelle for four and a half years. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I first met her in the worst chapter of her life had begun. Dr. Carlos Troconis: She had moved out of the home where she was living and moved into a temporary situation within walking distance of our church. Dr. Carlos Troconis: She immediately began to pitch in in various volunteer situations. Dr. Carlos Troconis: She became a regular cooking once a month, as we prepared a meal to serve 120 people in a Hartford shelter. Dr. Carlos Troconis: She also became a regular cooking once a month for our community dinner. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I now manage the church's thrift shop three years ago, it was just simply Dr. Carlos Troconis: an idea and Michelle showed up and cleaned and painted the space for the shop. Dr. Carlos Troconis: She attended regular Sunday morning worship services and with that whenever Dr. Carlos Troconis: her family was in town they would accompany her and participate in whatever activity Michelle was involved in. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Over the following weeks months and years I got to know Michelle. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I observed her as she met fellow parishioners some who have various needs. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Each and every time she would work on a way to offer help and support. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I witnessed her on several occasions when she could draw on her past experiences or on her deep faith to offer hope and encouragement to others. Dr. Carlos Troconis: She is a trusting intelligent kind hearted woman full of compassion and generous with both her time and talents. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Michelle is a positive contributor to her community and, above all, she is a loving mother who is trying to protect her daughter. Dr. Carlos Troconis: From the horror that has entered their lives. Dr. Carlos Troconis: The seriousness of the charges against Michelle caused me to pause for breath, but not for a moment do I falter in my support of Michelle. Dr. Carlos Troconis: While recognizing the evil manipulative man that was photos doulos and the tragedy that has befallen Jennifer, her children, her parents and her friends, I pray they may find strength, peace and comfort on their unspeakably pain. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I thank you very much, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you, thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: i'd like to call on. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Elizabeth van Loon, please. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Yes, thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you, thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I'd like to call on Elizabeth van Loon, please.
[02:25:01] Speaker 1: Dr. Carlos Troconis: Judge Randolph: Judge Randolph. Dr. Carlos Troconis: My name is Elizabeth van Loon.
[02:25:03] Speaker ?: Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you.
[02:25:04] Speaker 4: Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: Thank you. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I'd like to call on Elizabeth van Loon, please.
[02:25:08] Speaker 5: Dr. Carlos Troconis: Judge Randolph, my name is Elizabeth van Loon.
[02:25:26] Speaker 22: Dr. Carlos Troconis: I have been invited here today to speak on behalf of my friend, Michelle Troconis. Dr. Carlos Troconis: I have known Michelle and her family since 2019. Michelle has been attending my church where I've been a member for almost 40 years. And over the past five years, this is the Michelle I have come to know and deeply respect. And I believe her true character is not as it has been portrayed in the news media. Dedicated mother, Michelle is a deeply loving and dedicated mother. Her daughter, as you have heard, is a competitive downhill ski racer at the international level and trains in both North and South America. Michelle has described to me how she spends hours each day online going over school lessons with her daughter, so she can continue her education while training. Michelle is the mother who can inspire a competitive child, remaining emotionally close when they are physically distant.
[02:26:41] Speaker ?: Loving.
[02:26:42] Speaker 22: Michelle's love encompasses all of her family. Her parents and sisters attend my church whenever they are in Connecticut. One holiday, and I do believe it was Christmas, the entire family came to worship—parents, sisters, brothers-in-laws, nephews, and her daughter. The family, when dispersed, is in constant contact via text and Facebook so they can share the pictures, joys, and sorrows, and sorrows of their daily lives. Michelle maintains an excellent relationship with her ex-husband in Argentina and was delighted when he remarried and had a son with his new wife. Michelle shared with me joyfully a picture of her daughter with her new baby brother. Michelle's love extends to all who are in need, both human and animal. While in Connecticut, Michelle volunteered for horses who've been abused and now live on a rescue farm. She came to church regularly to bake cookies for the local police department and other first responders. And as you have heard, she's helped to cook delicious meals, which our church delivers to the soup kitchen, loaves and fishes in Hartford. At closest to my heart, Michelle is a model for caring. She has shown me how to love and care for a family that is geographically dispersed. My daughter serves overseas with the United States military, and her family is stationed with her. I have four young grandchildren, and I'm able to visit with them infrequently. Michelle is always asking about my family, particularly my grandchildren, and I'm always happy to share their pictures with her. Michelle aspires me to know that love does not fade with long distance and that parents, children and grandchildren can remain close when they are apart. And I am deeply grateful for having Michelle in my life and providing this example. Faithful. I see that Michelle embodies the Christian spirit. As Jesus commanded, she loves God and her neighbors with a tender and open arms. And I do pray that God's love embraces the family of Jennifer, particularly her children, as they must navigate their lives without her. And I ask you as the sentencing judge to show compassion and mercy to Michelle Traconis. Thank you for your time.
[02:29:39] Speaker 7: Thank you.
[02:29:40] Speaker ?: Thank you.
[02:29:41] Speaker 4: I'd like to call on Michelle's sister, Daniela, to speak please. Daniela Traconis.
[02:30:04] Speaker 23: Your Honor, Kevin Rand. My name is Daniela and I'm Michelle's sister. We're only two years apart, which has made our relationship very close since childhood. Michi isn't just my sister. She's my best friend, my big sister, my role model. The maid of honor at my wedding 20 years ago and a significant inspiration in my life. Her character shines through a devoted mother, a caring daughter, a loving sister, the godmother of my son, and the most dedicated aunt to my children. Michi's remarkable courage and selflessness were vividly displayed during a trip to the Amazon in Venezuela while with a group of friends I found myself trapped by rapidly rising waters in a river. Michi quickly organized our friends into a human chain and her calmness and quick thinking saved me from being swept away by the current into a dangerous waterfall. It was her strong arms that pulled me to safety, a testament to her instincts to protect me and save me that day. Michi has always been my biggest supporter. When I started my own business back in 2013, she helped me transform my dream into a reality. She worked day and night without asking for anything in return. All she wanted was to help my business grow. She passionately guided me and coached me on how to launch my idea. I am blessed to have her by my side. Despite her legal challenges over the past five years, she remains there for me. Offer me advice for me and my children when needed. Michi's unwavering dedication to helping those in need has inspired me. Michi has always dedicated herself to impacting many lives positively, even during these difficult times. She prioritized her daughter's education and athletic training. Also, she was very involved in community service, such as preparing meals for the poor at the Avon Church in Connecticut and suggesting to me to donate shoe covers to hospitals during COVID's shortage. This reflects her compassion and generosity. My sister and my role model is cherished by all who know her. I sympathize with the doulos children are going through. I feel immense sadness because I met the children when we spent Christmas together in 2017. My own kids are the same ages as the eldest twins, and it breaks my heart to think of their loss. I treasure the memories of that beautiful Christmas we shared together. The trial has taught all of us that fought these doulos. The man we met and thought was a good man and worthy of my sister was not what he portrayed to us. We all feel lied to. We all feel betrayed. Your Honor, I implore you to have mercy. Michi's life mission has always been to dedicate to service to others. The Michi I know could never harm or assist in harming another human being. I am begging you to consider Michi's many positive contributions to the community and her family throughout her life. Thank you, Your Honor.
[02:34:31] Speaker 1: Thank you.
[02:34:41] Speaker 4: I'd like to call on Eleanor Howard, please.
[02:34:51] Speaker 24: Hello, Judge Randolph. My name is Eleanor Howard. First, I offer to the family and friends of Jennifer Farber-Doulos my deepest condolences. I'm here to say how I know Michelle Traconis. We've been friends since September 2019 when I met her in church. I was never concerned about being with her. I did wonder if others might be. But I was taught in church to welcome all, no matter where they were on their life's journey. Michelle is one of the kindest women I know. She always asked, "How was I doing?" She helped me this year by sending me a thoughtful list of places to see in South America. She gave me confidence to travel there. At her home, she showed hospitality to my husband and I over dinner. Her unfailing warmth in greeting me brought me happiness. She introduced me to her family and friends who are now my friends. Michelle always found ways to help at church. She helped videotape an outdoor worship service, the first one after COVID lockdown, in June 2020. It took kindness to want to help during COVID, even outdoors and socially distanced. She attended church coffees, a drop-in gathering of friends. And she brightened the meetings with her interest in everyone. It was always better when she was there. On a Valentine's Day, Michelle gave everyone in church a box she'd made filled with chocolates. She had mugs made with our church logo. It was extraordinary to me. Coming to church to give to us, I just thought it would have been the other way around. And all she asked of being in church was to worship and pray. At the church's crowded social hours following Sunday services, Michelle was friendly. It may be scary for anyone, any newcomer, to join in. But Michelle never hesitated. She was comfortable with all of us getting to know her. I visited a horse rescue organization where she volunteered to take care of horses. It's hard for me sometimes to go to new places. But I knew if Michelle was there, it would be okay. I saw her help her daughter with homework, connecting online. She's a loving and gentle mother. She told me that when she was about 10 years old, she went with her father, the physician, to a remote Amazon region to help people. She described it as a perfectly normal thing to do. But I was amazed by her generosity in caring for people in need. And I will close with this. During a Bible study group five years ago, it was hard for Michelle to fully understand English. In a big group with everyone talking, this weakness was not evident. But in that small Bible study, discussion focused on each of us in turn. And we were each put on the spot. She didn't understand some of the questions put to her in English. And her responses in English were not always smooth. I know Michelle has been found guilty. But to me, she's a friend and a trusted and valued community participant. She made positive differences in my life. She showed me things a generous person could be, who a valued member of my community is, and how easy it is to share kindness. She never gave me a reason to doubt her sincerity. I feel the Michelle I know is the real Michelle. And I ask that you please show mercy. Thank you.
[02:39:32] Speaker 25: Thank you for the opportunity to speak on behalf of my sister-in-law, Michelle Traconis. My name is Herbert King and I'm here to share my personal experiences with Michelle and to ask for your compassion and leniency in her sentencing. Michelle is an extraordinary person who has a significant positive impact on my life and the lives of many others I know. She welcomed me into her family with open arms, becoming the sister that I never had. Michelle's support and acceptance were vital to my relationship with her sister, Daniela, my wife. We admire Michelle's core values of love, compassion, and caring for others so much that we named her the godmother of one of our children. Michelle has shown to me what it truly means to be a parent and to provide unconditional love to a child. She put her own dreams on hold to support and care for her daughter embodying selflessness and every sense of the word. She taught me the importance of putting one's personal life on hold to meet those needs of others. Michelle's free spirit, her creativity, her openness, and inclusiveness of others are qualities that I deeply admire. She has taught me that true fulfillment comes from sharing and giving to others, not from material possessions. I look up to her, I admire her, and I'm incredibly thankful to have her in my life. Anyone who knows Michelle, as I do, would consider themselves blessed. Throughout this ordeal, Michelle has maintained her dignity and humility. Despite being under intense public scrutiny and facing numerous challenges, she has continued to contribute positively to the community through her volunteer work and supporting her church. Her strength and resiliency are truly admirable. Michelle is selfless. She's always putting others first. She loves life and she enjoys sharing her life experience with others. She instills humility and she has taught my sons the real happiness comes from hard work and giving opportunities to others. She helps us get through the hardest of days with just a simple smile and she serves as a role model to many in our family. Her ability to give to so much to others is just extraordinary. Your Honor, as a family, we place our hope in the court and respectfully request mercy and your judgment. The Michelle that I know is not the type of person who would harm anyone or conspire to do so. She always gives back, she never takes, and she makes a positive impact wherever she goes. Your Honor, I humbly ask you to consider the profound impact that she's had on her family, on me, and in the community, and that you show compassion during her sentencing. Thank you.
[02:42:39] Speaker 1: Thank you. Thank you.
[02:42:42] Speaker 4: Hold on. Wendy Isco. She went, she stepped out. So, um, and in that case, um, I would ask that.
[02:43:06] Speaker ?: Thank you. I'm sorry.
[02:43:09] Speaker 4: Cut. Oh, here she is. I'm sorry. Mrs. Isco.
[02:43:21] Speaker 26: Good afternoon, Judge Randolph. My name is Wendy Isco. Wendy Isco. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share with you today some of the personal experiences with the defendant, Michelle Draconis. I realize the court has found her guilty of the tragic crime set before her, and I'm here with the hope that I might shed some light on the character and personality of Michelle with the intent of revealing to you what I know of her as a compassionate woman, mother, and friend. In 2019, she attended our church for a period of five to six months when she was under house arrest and required to stay within the limits of the community. While at the church, I participated with her in several volunteer service ministries there, of what you've heard of today. For example, preparing food for the homeless population in Hartford. As well, together, we created cards for housebound and hospitalized members of the church. She was always willing and eager to lend her time and talent to these volunteer activities. We knew we could count on her whenever and wherever she was needed. Perhaps the greatest offering of herself came in the form of her offer to coach my daughter for free in an equine therapy setting. Michelle and I talked of her own experiences working with children and adults in these types of programs and the improvement they brought to the quality of their lives. We were actively in the process of trying to find a horse facility where this might happen on a regular basis at that time. However, regrettably, we were unable to find that within our community. Had she had the opportunity to work with my daughter, my daughter would have greatly benefited from being under Michelle's kind and gentle tutelage, as well as being the recipient of her skillful knowledge of horses and equine therapy. Every interaction I had with Michelle revealed her to be an intelligent, authentically caring and compassionate person and mother who talked lovingly of her own daughter and family, one who cared deeply for all the children of God. It is my hope that you will take into consideration when sentencing her with this, who this non-violent caring woman is, and how she has displayed such personal courage, integrity and calm as she endures this verdict upon her life. Indeed, we are all aware that no one should ever have to suffer the horrific loss that Jennifer Farber's family and friends has had to endure these past five years. It is with sincere respect for their painful journeys that I pray for them.
[02:46:15] Speaker 4: Thank you. Thank you. Call on Michelle's sister, Maricela.
[02:46:30] Speaker 27: Your Honor, Judge Randolph, I appreciate you taking the time to hear my stories about who Michi is to me and what she represents in my life. I am the third of four siblings. Our parents got divorced when I was seven, but they did an outstanding job of preserving a parenting relationship to raise us with unity and solidarity. And here they are, together for us. Growing up, I've always looked up to Michi, because she's the kind of person who stands up for those who need help and teaches by doing. Imagine all that my big sister taught me, from reading bedtime stories, to playing in the park, riding bicycles and horses, roller skating, water skiing, and making sand castles, to role modeling what a good mother is. Yes, she taught me all the skills I needed to be the mother I am today for my twins, by showing how devoted, lovely, and caring she is to my niece, my goddaughter. When I was a kid, if any of us, or even when my school friends were having a tough time, Michi was there, wiping our tears and making sure we did not feel alone, but loved and protected. And by doing this, I learned how important it is to care for others and to build strength and resilience in life. She has always stood up for me and my sisters. I tried to do the same for my youngest sister. This is how we pass our hearts to one another in my family. One of my fondest memories is when Michi learned and mastered her driving. She would take us to school, turning those rides into lessons on social awareness and kindness. Our school was across town, requiring us to cross several very poor neighborhoods. She colored those rides by describing to us how the poor were in hunger and in need, so that we thought twice when we did not want to eat our lunch. We would often prepare an extra sandwich to share with less privileged children along the way, stealing in us a lifelong commitment to empathy. Now, because of Michi's influence, my everyday job is to place myself in the shoes of the American consumers to serve and improve their lives. When I was accepted into university with a scholarship but lacked transportation, Michi gifted me her car. Thanks to her, I was able to pursue my dreams of a higher education. This made a significant difference in my life and I learned about generosity. My heart has been heavy with sorrow for the last five years and I have lived in deep pain every day. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected as we endure this hardship. In these moments of profound loss, the strength and unity of a family become precious. Judge, I beg with all my heart and spirit for your openness to a different view and mercy for Michelle. She has always been there for us. Her journey in heart treats everyone with so much love. She keeps our large family connected, ensuring we stay close to preserve family traditions. She's also an amazing aunt to my twin boys, encouraging their dreams of playing sports professionally with her incredible belief that no challenge is too big to overcome. As you can see, Michi means so much to me and has always been a pillar of light, strength and hope in my life. She is the heart of our family and without her, our lives would be profoundly broken. Thank you for your consideration, Judge Randall.
[02:50:30] Speaker 1: Judge Randall: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn, what we will do is take a break until one o'clock and then resume at one o'clock. And please give heed to the marshals. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[02:51:00] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: Senator Schoenhorn: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. I'd like to ask Nancy Rosen to speak, please.
[02:51:16] Speaker 4: Attorney Schoenhorn: Senator Schoenhorn: Thank you. I'd like to ask Nancy Rosen to speak, please. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you, Your Honor. My name is Nancy Rosen. I've been a practicing social worker since 1971 and I'm the founder of a therapeutic writing center.
[02:51:39] Speaker 28: Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you, Your Honor. My name is Nancy Rosen. I've been a practicing social worker since 1971 and I'm the founder of a therapeutic writing center. Attorney Schoenhorn: I first met Michelle in 1990 when she came to my summer program from Venezuela. Attorney Schoenhorn: And I wasn't drawn to her right away. She was too beautiful for my taste. Attorney Schoenhorn: And she was kind of aloof and we just, I don't know. And then after a while, you know, a couple of days, seeing her in action, just seeing this incredibly thoughtful, kind heart, deep young woman who just paid attention to every living being on the farm. Attorney Schoenhorn: Horses, the pig, the parrot, the other kids, anyone who had a problem. She was there for them. Attorney Schoenhorn: Her family had a plan for her to go to a boarding school and when camp was over for a year. Attorney Schoenhorn: And she was not thrilled with that option and we offered her the possibility of staying with us for the school year. Attorney Schoenhorn: And, and the family and Michelle accepted. Attorney Schoenhorn: She was, you know, I have a son who's Michelle's age and a son a couple of years older and they were all very close. Attorney Schoenhorn: They were all really good kids. They were all helpful at the farm. Attorney Schoenhorn: I have one thing, a facet of Michelle's character that I actually think has to do with this case some. Attorney Schoenhorn: And that is that her deep heartfelt kindness and belief that all people are good. Attorney Schoenhorn: And to the extent that one time she was going down to New York City to visit or to catch up with a cousin who was going to be in town from Venezuela. Attorney Schoenhorn: And when she came back, she was telling me about this really, really nice taxi driver who at the end of the conversation when he dropped her off, Attorney Schoenhorn: he invited her to come visit his apartment the next time she was in the city. Attorney Schoenhorn: And she's telling me this with great enthusiasm and I'm saying, Michelle, you know, a nice conversation doesn't mean a good person. Attorney Schoenhorn: You know, you really have to, you know, be a little bit more suspicious. Attorney Schoenhorn: She isn't and wasn't. Attorney Schoenhorn: I tried to explain that, you know, you don't visit people you don't know at their homes, Attorney Schoenhorn: that you may be a public space, you know. Attorney Schoenhorn: At the end of that year with us, Michelle went home to finish high school and college in Caracas, Venezuela. Attorney Schoenhorn: In the 30 years since she's finished college and completed a certification in therapeutic writing and taught in various places and countries. Attorney Schoenhorn: I love Michelle deeply and admire her. Attorney Schoenhorn: I am truly horrified and saddened. Attorney Schoenhorn: But she's part of this terrible story. Attorney Schoenhorn: I feel great empathy for all the victims that the sociopath Fotis left behind. Attorney Schoenhorn: His parents, his wife's parents, the five children now without mother or father. Attorney Schoenhorn: Jennifer's friends, Michelle's daughter. Attorney Schoenhorn: And her sisters and parents and Michelle herself. Attorney Schoenhorn: I hope, sir, that you can believe that Michelle can do much more in her life to make amends in society than being incarcerated the rest of her days. Attorney Schoenhorn: She is a beautiful human being that I love with all my heart. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[02:55:24] Speaker 29: Attorney Schoenhorn: I'll ask that Eileen Keller speak, please.
[02:55:25] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: Eileen Keller. Attorney Schoenhorn: Good afternoon, your honor. Attorney Schoenhorn: Good afternoon. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you for having me. Attorney Schoenhorn: Good afternoon. Attorney Schoenhorn: Good afternoon, your honor. Attorney Schoenhorn: Good afternoon. Attorney Schoenhorn: I'm sorry. Attorney Schoenhorn: Good afternoon. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you for having me. Attorney Schoenhorn: Good afternoon. Attorney Schoenhorn: Good afternoon. Attorney Schoenhorn: Good afternoon.
[02:55:36] Speaker 22: Attorney Schoenhorn: Good afternoon. Attorney Schoenhorn: Good afternoon, your honor.
[02:55:38] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: Good afternoon.
[02:55:38] Speaker 30: Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you for letting me speak today. Attorney Schoenhorn: I wanted to tell the court about my friend, Michelle Traconis, Attorney Schoenhorn: how we met, and my personal experience with her. Attorney Schoenhorn: I have been volunteering at U.S. Horse Welfare and Rescue in Avon, Connecticut Attorney Schoenhorn: since February of 2019. Attorney Schoenhorn: After 30 years in the corporate world, I had been laid off in October. Attorney Schoenhorn: Prior to losing my job, I had lost my dad, and I was feeling very lost, Attorney Schoenhorn: depressed, and uncertain about what I wanted to do. Attorney Schoenhorn: I decided to take a break from the corporate world and responded to an ad on Facebook Attorney Schoenhorn: looking for volunteers. Attorney Schoenhorn: Soon I realized how special and comforting being around the horses could be Attorney Schoenhorn: and how much I was healing by being around them. Attorney Schoenhorn: I was spending more and more time at the rescue and often met and trained new volunteers. Attorney Schoenhorn: One evening, Susan Mitchell, president of the rescue, called me to talk Attorney Schoenhorn: about an application that she had received through volunteer match. Attorney Schoenhorn: Susan asked me if I knew who Michelle Traconis was, and I told her that yes, I did know of her. Attorney Schoenhorn: I had been watching many of the news broadcasts on the disappearance of Jennifer Dulos, Attorney Schoenhorn: so I was familiar with who Michelle was, or so I thought. Attorney Schoenhorn: Susan was concerned about having Michelle volunteer because of any possible negative impact Attorney Schoenhorn: it might have to the rescue, both with our volunteers and our fundraising efforts. Attorney Schoenhorn: At that time, we were in the planning stages of many of the programs that are offered at the rescue today. Attorney Schoenhorn: And as we talked, we both agreed that if we were going to have programs Attorney Schoenhorn: that offer a safe space for people and women in troubled situations, Attorney Schoenhorn: we should welcome this woman who was obviously struggling. Attorney Schoenhorn: Susan asked me if I would mind meeting Michelle at the rescue Attorney Schoenhorn: and giving her an introduction to the work that we do. Attorney Schoenhorn: Michelle arrived with her father, Dr. Carlos Chaconis, Attorney Schoenhorn: and they were both obviously very nervous about how she may be received. Attorney Schoenhorn: I am a true believer in our constitutional right of innocence until proven guilty, Attorney Schoenhorn: so I had decided to put any personal thoughts or judgments aside Attorney Schoenhorn: and welcome her with kindness. Attorney Schoenhorn: From the moment Michelle spoke, I was shocked at how soft-spoken and sweet she was. Attorney Schoenhorn: I did not realize from the media coverage that she spoke with such broken English, Attorney Schoenhorn: and often she would be embarrassed when she asked me to explain what a certain expression meant. Attorney Schoenhorn: In all honesty, I expected to meet a cold, hard woman, and Michelle is the exact opposite. Attorney Schoenhorn: Over the next weeks and months, I worked with Michelle often and we became fast friends. Attorney Schoenhorn: She offered to teach me more about horsemanship, and I had my daughter take riding lessons with her. Attorney Schoenhorn: I never once had any hesitation about letting my child spend time with Michelle. Attorney Schoenhorn: Her daughter Nicole and mine are very close in age, so we often spoke about being single moms, Attorney Schoenhorn: raising at that time almost teens. Attorney Schoenhorn: My daughter Emily loved taking lessons with Michelle, and they formed a friendship bond as well. Attorney Schoenhorn: She even gave Emily a bunch of clothes that she had gotten for Nicole but didn't fit. Attorney Schoenhorn: I think it helped Michelle a bit to spend time with Emily since most of the time she could only see Nicole virtually. Attorney Schoenhorn: Nicole is absolutely the most important thing in Michelle's life and she was always so proud to tell me about her accomplishments, Attorney Schoenhorn: and how distressing it was to not be able to be with her. Attorney Schoenhorn: Susan brought Michelle, her mom Maricela, and I together often to discuss the best approach to launch therapy type programs at the rescue. Attorney Schoenhorn: I got to know Maricela and Carlos, and I understand why Michelle and her sisters are such kind, loving, and faithful people. Attorney Schoenhorn: Maricela and Carlos are no longer together, but you'd never know that from looking at them. Attorney Schoenhorn: They have stood together by Michelle's side from the beginning as one family. Attorney Schoenhorn: Since the trial, I have also gotten to know her sister Claudia and it is amazing at the bond they all share. Attorney Schoenhorn: The shock and distress that they felt that the verdict just broke my heart. Attorney Schoenhorn: They have given everything they have, emotionally, physically, and financially, to support Michelle, and they continue to do so. Attorney Schoenhorn: As our friendship grew, I was getting more and more frustrated with media coverage Attorney Schoenhorn: and the picture that they were painting of Michelle. Attorney Schoenhorn: She is one of the warmest, kindest, and truly exceptional women that I have the pleasure of knowing. Attorney Schoenhorn: Yet the media has made her into one of the most hated women in the country. Attorney Schoenhorn: When I learned that my younger sister was dying of cancer and very quickly passed away, Attorney Schoenhorn: Michelle was always there with a kind word or a hug to support me. Attorney Schoenhorn: Her bond with her sisters gave her the true understanding of what this loss meant to me. Attorney Schoenhorn: And I am very grateful for her compassion and support. Attorney Schoenhorn: When Michelle moved back to Florida, we continue to keep in touch. Attorney Schoenhorn: And I, in all honesty, feel very blessed to have her as my friend. Attorney Schoenhorn: I don't know what the future holds for Michelle. Attorney Schoenhorn: I pray that any appeal will eventually result in her freedom. Attorney Schoenhorn: At this time, however, the only thing I can do for her is be here, speak my truth, and ask for your mercy. Attorney Schoenhorn: As you hand down her sentence. Attorney Schoenhorn: I hope that my words help you to understand a bit more about who Michelle Traconis really is, Attorney Schoenhorn: and not the monster that the media has made the world think she is. Attorney Schoenhorn: Michelle Traconis is a daughter, sister, friend, teacher, and most of all, she is a mother. Attorney Schoenhorn: Michelle has done a lot of good things in this world, both personally and professionally. Attorney Schoenhorn: She is not a person that will cause this world any harm or a danger to anyone. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you very much for letting me speak today. Attorney Schoenhorn: And my heartfelt condolences go out to Jennifer's children, family, mother, and friends. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[03:01:36] Speaker 4: Attorney Schoenhorn: I'd like to ask Paula Salazar to speak, please. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[03:01:42] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: I'd like to ask Paula Salazar to speak, please.
[03:01:47] Speaker 29: Attorney Schoenhorn: Good afternoon. Attorney Schoenhorn: Good afternoon, Judge Randolph. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you for giving me the chance to speak here today. Attorney Schoenhorn: I am Paula, one of Michi's closest friends. Attorney Schoenhorn: For me, she's my best friend. Attorney Schoenhorn: I have had the privilege of knowing her for over 20 years. Attorney Schoenhorn: We met in Argentina, both navigating life in a new country. Attorney Schoenhorn: And our connection was instant. Attorney Schoenhorn: In a place where everything was unfamiliar and myself being shy and introverted, Attorney Schoenhorn: Michelle's friendship provided me with a sense of belonging and security Attorney Schoenhorn: that I will be forever grateful for. Attorney Schoenhorn: Michelle possesses a special spark that brings joy and good energy wherever she goes. Attorney Schoenhorn: I've always admired her authenticity and her remarkable ability to uplift those around her. Attorney Schoenhorn: When I met her, something that really struck me was her acceptance of others. Attorney Schoenhorn: She's the kind of person that never judges, criticizes, or speaks ill of anyone. Attorney Schoenhorn: A very scarce trait in today's world. Attorney Schoenhorn: Throughout our friendship, I've had the privilege of witnessing Michelle's unwavering dedication Attorney Schoenhorn: and love as a mother to Nicole. Attorney Schoenhorn: Their bond is truly inspiring. Attorney Schoenhorn: And in all these years, I've also had the opportunity to know and share moments with her family Attorney Schoenhorn: and I've witnessed their warmth and closeness firsthand. Attorney Schoenhorn: In addition to her role as a devoted mother, beautiful family member, and a conditional friend, Attorney Schoenhorn: Michelle has dedicated countless hours to volunteering. Attorney Schoenhorn: Every time I visit her in Connecticut, she took me along to assist at a church Attorney Schoenhorn: where we cooked meals and provided aid to the less fortunate. Attorney Schoenhorn: In Argentina, she made a profound impact on many individuals through her dedication to equine therapy. Attorney Schoenhorn: She has always demonstrated compassion, selflessness, and deep empathy for others. Attorney Schoenhorn: Michelle's fate took an unexpected turn when she crossed paths with Fotis Dulos. Attorney Schoenhorn: He appeared to be the perfect man. Attorney Schoenhorn: I personally engaged with him on numerous occasions, Attorney Schoenhorn: even introducing him to my children and my mother. Attorney Schoenhorn: And yet, we never detected any red flags. Attorney Schoenhorn: Unfortunately, he showed it that he was mostly a coward Attorney Schoenhorn: who left his children without parents and the woman he supposedly loved in this situation. Attorney Schoenhorn: This experience highlights the scary reality that anyone could find themselves in the place Michi is now. Attorney Schoenhorn: Your Honor, while I understand the gravity of the charges against Michi, Attorney Schoenhorn: I implore you to consider her positive qualities and contributions to society, Attorney Schoenhorn: and respectfully request a compassionate outcome for her. Attorney Schoenhorn: And as I stand here advocating for my beautiful friend, Attorney Schoenhorn: I do want to express that my heart also aches for Jennifer's children and family. Attorney Schoenhorn: It's heartbreaking to know and think about the amount of pain they've had to bear. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you very much.
[03:04:42] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: Tony Schoenhorn: The defense has about 15 minutes left.
[03:04:46] Speaker 4: Attorney Schoenhorn: I would now call on Michelle's sister Claudia Troconis.
[03:05:02] Speaker 31: Attorney Schoenhorn: Good afternoon, Your Honor. Attorney Schoenhorn: My name is Claudia Troconis, Attorney Schoenhorn: and I am here today as the youngest sister of Michelle Troconis. Attorney Schoenhorn: I am grateful for the opportunity to speak about my sister, Attorney Schoenhorn: whom I deeply admire and support. Attorney Schoenhorn: Michelle has always been an example of kindness and compassion in our family and communities. Attorney Schoenhorn: She would never intentionally harm anyone or be part of any malicious plan as horrific as what she has been accused of. Attorney Schoenhorn: My sister is a loving and exceptional human being who unfortunately fell in love with the wrong man. Attorney Schoenhorn: He portrayed himself convincingly as a charming, well-educated, hard-working man and a dedicated father to his children, Attorney Schoenhorn: who seemed to embody great virtues. Attorney Schoenhorn: Yet he deceived us all, but most importantly, my sister Michelle. Attorney Schoenhorn: One of the most frustrating things for Michi is that while people accept that Fotis fooled everyone, Attorney Schoenhorn: including lawyers and mental health professionals, my sister is expected to have seen him for what he truly was: Attorney Schoenhorn: a dangerous, manipulative, and controlling man. Attorney Schoenhorn: The fact that professionals missed it provides clear and convincing support for the argument Attorney Schoenhorn: that Michelle had no idea what Fotis was and what he was capable of. Attorney Schoenhorn: But I am here today to explain why Michelle would not have known anything and to speak of who she is. Attorney Schoenhorn: As the eldest of four sisters and over 21 cousins, Michi has always been the pillar of our family. Attorney Schoenhorn: After leaving our home country, Venezuela, she coordinated our gatherings, ensuring we stay connected Attorney Schoenhorn: despite our geographical distances, reinforcing the close-knit bonds we value and maintain today. Attorney Schoenhorn: Michi has always been more than just my eldest sister. She has been like a second mother to me. Attorney Schoenhorn: We're 12 years apart, and her nurturing presence has been influential throughout my life. Attorney Schoenhorn: After her parents' amicable divorce, Michi took on significant responsibilities to support our family. Attorney Schoenhorn: One stark memory that stands out is when I was six years old and sustained an eye injury while playing soccer with neighbors. Attorney Schoenhorn: I was home alone with her and in a lot of pain, and Michi, without hesitation, rushed me to the nearest hospital, where I underwent critical surgery that saved my vision. Attorney Schoenhorn: Her care has been nothing short of heroic for me as a child. Attorney Schoenhorn: Michi is also an exceptional and dedicated mother. She has been a committed mother to her only daughter, Attorney Schoenhorn: my niece, who is an Olympic athlete who has achieved the highest levels of medals while representing the United States of America. Attorney Schoenhorn: When I decided to have children, I aspired to be a wonderful and dedicated mother like Michi to my twin boys. Attorney Schoenhorn: She has supported every significant milestone for my twins and nephews, serving as an exceptional aunt. Attorney Schoenhorn: They, too, look up to their eldest aunt, cherishing every outing filled with joy and memorable experiences. Attorney Schoenhorn: Michi's passion for helping others extended into her professional life and is what inspired me the most professionally and personally. Attorney Schoenhorn: Motivated by her paternal aunt, born with an intellectual disability, Attorney Schoenhorn: she pursued a bachelor's degree in special education in Venezuela. Attorney Schoenhorn: Her dedication didn't stop with her degree. My father instilled in us a love for animals and sports from an early age. Attorney Schoenhorn: Michi took it upon herself to do courses in equine therapy for adults and children with special needs. Attorney Schoenhorn: She pioneered the first therapeutic writing center in Venezuela back in the 90s. Attorney Schoenhorn: However, this job, this wasn't just a job for Michi. It was her calling. Attorney Schoenhorn: She poured her heart into each session and each family she worked with, fundamentally changing lives for the better. Attorney Schoenhorn: She became the therapist and continues to be the main influence of my best friend's brother because he was diagnosed at an early age with an intellectual disability. Attorney Schoenhorn: And he said that Michi forever changed his life. Attorney Schoenhorn: One beautiful memory I forever cherish is when Michi took us both with her to a staying equestrian camp in New York. Attorney Schoenhorn: And that's when my intense admiration for her grew deeper, as I was just 12 years old then. Attorney Schoenhorn: I always accompanied my sister to her sessions as we shared the same passion for writing courses and helping those most vulnerable. Attorney Schoenhorn: Her profound impact on those she worked with, including my best friend's brother, is a testament to her character and dedication to our community. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thanks to her guidance and inspiration, I followed in her footsteps, volunteering throughout my high school years in a program called Full Horses for Handicapped. Attorney Schoenhorn: Her influence inspired me to pursue a career in behavior analysis and I am a proud board certified behavior analyst. Attorney Schoenhorn: She instilled in me the sense of making a difference in the lives of many children with special needs. Attorney Schoenhorn: None of this would have been possible without Michi's example and mentorship. Attorney Schoenhorn: What happened to Jennifer Dulos is heartbreaking. Attorney Schoenhorn: We're deeply aware of the pain and suffering endured by her family and five children these past five years. Attorney Schoenhorn: This has left a permanent scar and our hearts go out to her loved ones during this incredibly difficult time as no one should endure such suffering. Attorney Schoenhorn: Today I stand before you, Judge, to affirm my unwavering support for my sister Michi and to reveal her true character, which is very different from the accusations against her. Attorney Schoenhorn: Her life has been one of service, love and dedication to the well-being of others. Attorney Schoenhorn: It is these attributes in her history of positive impact that I humbly ask you to consider in your decision for her sentencing today. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you, Your Honor, for giving me this opportunity to speak on my sister's behalf and for considering the full scope of her true character in your decision today.
[03:10:30] Speaker 4: Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: I call on Michelle's daughter, Nicole, to speak. Attorney Schoenhorn: She was 12 years old in 2019. She's still a child.
[03:10:47] Speaker 32: Attorney Schoenhorn: Your Honor, I stand here today to speak about my mom, who means the world to me. Attorney Schoenhorn: I have been in my mom's life for 17 years, five months and 12 days. Attorney Schoenhorn: Despite my parents' separation when I was young, today I recognize the healthy relationship, mutual respect and care they still hold. Attorney Schoenhorn: They've exemplified the essence of co-parenting, always prioritizing my well-being above all else. Attorney Schoenhorn: My mother, Michelle, has embraced my passions as her own, particularly my love for skiing. Attorney Schoenhorn: Despite not being raised in the skiing world, she has devoted herself to understanding and supporting my aspiration in the sport. Attorney Schoenhorn: That includes moving with me to Colorado since 2015 for three to five months each season. Attorney Schoenhorn: My mom's presence on my races all over the U.S., regardless of her commitments, speaks for itself Attorney Schoenhorn: about her dedication as a parent. Attorney Schoenhorn: I remember asking my mom why she only had me. Attorney Schoenhorn: And her answer was, "Because I wanted to always offer all the attention to you." Attorney Schoenhorn: Michelle isn't just my mother. Attorney Schoenhorn: She's my best friend, my rock and my guiding light. Attorney Schoenhorn: If you ask me who I want to be, my unhesitant answer would be, "I want to be just like my mom." Attorney Schoenhorn: She's a perfect example of kindness, thoughtfulness, and selflessness. Attorney Schoenhorn: Whether it's cooking together, numerous friends of mine seek out her company, drawn to her warmth and kindness. Attorney Schoenhorn: Whether it's cooking together, sharing conversations, or simply being in her presence, people gravitate to her brought up spirit. Attorney Schoenhorn: Reflecting on my past, I remember the introduction of Fotestulos into our lives, meeting him at the water ski club in Miami. Attorney Schoenhorn: I noticed he was outgoing and friendly. Attorney Schoenhorn: I also met the kids, and I myself enjoyed spending time with them. Attorney Schoenhorn: Watching my mother fall in love with him, I welcomed the possibility of her finding happiness. Attorney Schoenhorn: When my mom decided to move to Connecticut, the first thing she let me know was about Sundown Ski Resort, Attorney Schoenhorn: a mountain only a few minutes away from Fort Jefferson crossing. Attorney Schoenhorn: Even though she had fallen in love, she always carried the thought of me and how much I needed my skiing. Attorney Schoenhorn: So much that my mom and I would move to Colorado four to five months every year for my training. Attorney Schoenhorn: Despite spending considerable time with Fotestulos and even forming individual plans together, Attorney Schoenhorn: I never anticipated the tragedy that unfolded, leaving me shocked and confused. Attorney Schoenhorn: I never had the chance to meet Jennifer, nor did my mother ever speak ill of her. Attorney Schoenhorn: My heart goes out to the kids, and I earnestly hope that one day we all discover peace within our hearts. Attorney Schoenhorn: Through it all, I want to emphasize my love and trust in my mom. Attorney Schoenhorn: She has been my anchor, guiding me through life's troubles. Attorney Schoenhorn: She's the first person I call after a bad competition, and without her motivational words, Attorney Schoenhorn: or simply her peaceful voice, I want to be able to be where I am today in either my sport or in life. Attorney Schoenhorn: I am begging you to listen. I need my mom in my life. Attorney Schoenhorn: Not just as a parent, but as a source of strength and understanding. Attorney Schoenhorn: My love for her remains uninfluenced by the situations or difficulties we may encounter. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you for letting me share this with you, Your Honor.
[03:13:56] Speaker 4: Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Understanding there's only limited time, I want to point out a couple of things that haven't been made clear. Attorney Schoenhorn: The first is that during the trial, the court did not have any aspect or understanding what person, Attorney Schoenhorn: what kind of person Michelle was, whether it was from media or just what people were saying about her during the trial. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court received a completely different caricature, if I will say, as to who she really is. Attorney Schoenhorn: She's a loving daughter, sister and mother and friend. Attorney Schoenhorn: She's a religious and charitable person. Attorney Schoenhorn: She was kind, she's helpful, not only to other people, but to animals, to the disabled. Attorney Schoenhorn: I know, for example, as the report indicates that the Avi Pane program at the university she went to, Attorney Schoenhorn: which stands for Association with Parents and Friends of Exceptional Children, Attorney Schoenhorn: the degree she got, exceptional children in Spanish means special needs children. Attorney Schoenhorn: This is what she did, her equine therapy, whether she actually went to Dubai at one point to work with disabled children there. Attorney Schoenhorn: She worked at the horse rescue in Avon while she was here. Attorney Schoenhorn: She's had no criminal history, she has no history of violence whatsoever. Attorney Schoenhorn: She even bought a condominium in Colorado so her daughter could train and be there with her during the winter months, Attorney Schoenhorn: so she could compete as a competitive international skier on the Youth Olympic ski team representing the United States in Korea, Attorney Schoenhorn: where Michelle was not allowed to go because of the restrictions of this trial. Attorney Schoenhorn: I'll just note at one point that Fotis Doulis became angry that Michelle bought the condo in Colorado, Attorney Schoenhorn: rather than using her money to invest in his company. Attorney Schoenhorn: That's what kind of person he was like. Attorney Schoenhorn: She may have been naive, that she believed in Fotis, she believed who he was, Attorney Schoenhorn: and she believed the police when they were talking to her. Attorney Schoenhorn: And also, I will note, she believed her former ineffective counsel. Attorney Schoenhorn: The probation officer, as the court indicated, stated that it's not fully clear what role Michelle played, Attorney Schoenhorn: and I submit that that's still true to this day after the court heard two months of evidence during the trial. Attorney Schoenhorn: There is a concept in the law of minor versus minimal role versus the role of others. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court cannot sentence Michelle for what Fotis Doulos or others did. Attorney Schoenhorn: We talk about relative culpability. Attorney Schoenhorn: It is Michelle the court has to consider, not what Fotis Doulos did. Attorney Schoenhorn: And none of the things that he did are attributable to Michelle. Attorney Schoenhorn: And I will go further, Your Honor, that although the court doesn't agree with my arguments Attorney Schoenhorn: that she had very little knowledge, if anything, about what Fotis was up to, Attorney Schoenhorn: I will note that whatever the court feels was her complicity, it made no difference to what Fotis Doulos did or what was uncovered as to what Fotis Doulos did. Attorney Schoenhorn: It did not help complete something that wouldn't already have occurred, but for things that she herself told the police, they would not even have known about that. Attorney Schoenhorn: So she is the one who implicated herself according to what the state said. Attorney Schoenhorn: I note she is not a danger to anyone in the community. Attorney Schoenhorn: She was, while on release, she received a form of punishment because she was on house arrest for nine full months. Attorney Schoenhorn: She could not leave for any reason other than going to counsel's office. Attorney Schoenhorn: I found that I was one of the sole basis for her to be able to leave her small apartment that she had to stay in Attorney Schoenhorn: because she was ordered out of the large home that she had been staying at in Farmington with Fotis. Attorney Schoenhorn: In addition, she was on a bracelet for 1,404 days until Judge White removed that condition in 2023. Attorney Schoenhorn: And I would submit that such long bracelet, having to charge one to two hours every day, also constitute, reminding her every single day for years, also constitutes a form of punishment, even if it doesn't involve incarceration. Attorney Schoenhorn: When I talk about comparative responsibility, the court is not here, cannot punish Fotis Doulos. Attorney Schoenhorn: He's not here. Attorney Schoenhorn: I understand people's anger in their inability to punish Fotis Doulos for what he did. Attorney Schoenhorn: But Michelle is not a substitute for what the court, if the court was in a position to sentence Fotis Doulos, to do to her what the court would have done to Fotis. Attorney Schoenhorn: And finally, I note, your honor, that we're talking about comparative responsibility. Attorney Schoenhorn: Pavel Guimiani was clearly based on his own testimony. Attorney Schoenhorn: He had knowledge of what was going on. Attorney Schoenhorn: He was told by his own admission, Fotis Doulos, there may be DNA on my car seats. Attorney Schoenhorn: Remove those car seats. Attorney Schoenhorn: Did he refuse? Attorney Schoenhorn: No. Attorney Schoenhorn: His excuse was, well, I didn't want to lose my job. Attorney Schoenhorn: But he removed those car seats. Attorney Schoenhorn: He deceived the police until they came and took his truck and then came to his house to take the white Jeep that was parked in his driveway. Attorney Schoenhorn: Only then did he mention, oh, by the way, I still have those seats here. Attorney Schoenhorn: But he was given full immunity. Attorney Schoenhorn: Because he was given full immunity, he suffered no consequences at all. Attorney Schoenhorn: And he was rewarded with US citizenship afterwards. Attorney Schoenhorn: Whoever was down moving that vehicle in the afternoon of May 24, we don't know who that is. Attorney Schoenhorn: But again, someone who was directly responsible down in New Cana. Attorney Schoenhorn: So if we're talking about comparative responsibility, and I note that Pavel Guimiani got a free pass. Attorney Schoenhorn: My request is going to be for probation for Michelle. Attorney Schoenhorn: Because she's already suffered the vilification of not just people here, but in the entire country, if not overseas as well. Attorney Schoenhorn: Now it's my understanding, that's all I have to say. Attorney Schoenhorn: I know that Michelle has some words that she wants to speak to you on. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Will the court hear from her? Attorney Schoenhorn: Yes.
[03:20:32] Speaker 33: Attorney Schoenhorn: Your Honor. Attorney Schoenhorn: I am deeply saddened by this tragedy that has affected so many lives. Attorney Schoenhorn: I found out things before and during trial about a man. Attorney Schoenhorn: I thought I knew and loved. Attorney Schoenhorn: I deeply regret ever being in a relationship with Fotis Dulos. Attorney Schoenhorn: And bringing my daughter, my family, and myself into our lives. Attorney Schoenhorn: Into his life. Attorney Schoenhorn: I am a person of profound faith. Attorney Schoenhorn: And I have been praying and will continue to pray for those who suffer and still suffer. Attorney Schoenhorn: I am thankful to my whole family and my dear friends who have stood by me and support me. Attorney Schoenhorn: I am grateful to you, Your Honor, to let me express myself. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[03:21:40] Speaker 4: Attorney Schoenhorn: That concludes our presentation.
[03:21:45] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: What the court is going to do is take a recess and consider the remarks. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court has read the pre-sentence investigation report. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court has also read the 63 or so letters submitted to this court in support of Michelle Triconis. Attorney Schoenhorn: We're going to resume at 3:20. Attorney Schoenhorn: Stand on recess.
[03:22:07] Speaker 5: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:22:12] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:22:46] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:22:48] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:22:50] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
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[03:22:54] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
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[03:22:57] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:23:10] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:23:13] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:23:21] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:23:22] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:23:41] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:23:42] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:23:48] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:23:49] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:23:51] Speaker 5: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:23:52] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:23:55] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:24:17] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:24:20] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:24:28] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:24:39] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:24:47] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:24:52] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:25:12] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:25:13] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:25:18] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:25:21] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:25:42] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:25:43] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:25:48] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:25:49] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:25:56] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:25:57] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:26:09] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:26:10] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:26:12] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:26:14] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:26:16] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:26:17] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:26:24] Speaker 5: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:26:25] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:26:41] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:26:47] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:26:48] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:26:53] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:26:55] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:27:10] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:27:14] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:27:48] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:27:49] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:27:51] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise.
[03:27:52] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court may consider information that has a minimum indicia of reliability. Attorney Schoenhorn: Now that minimum indicia of reliability is not limited to unfavorable information. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court can consider favorable information that has a minimum indicia of reliability. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court certainly considers the victim impact statements. Attorney Schoenhorn: Every victim has the right to be heard before the court sentences a defendant. Attorney Schoenhorn: That's part of the Connecticut Victims Bill of Rights, which is read every day in every courthouse here in Connecticut. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court would clarify what it perceives as perhaps a misconception of what the court's role is. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court does not deliberate with the jury. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court does not deliberate on the evidence at all. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court hears the evidence as the evidence comes into the record. Attorney Schoenhorn: So when you hear that the court has a view of the evidence, the court Attorney Schoenhorn: the court has no view of the evidence. Attorney Schoenhorn: What the court has is a verdict and what could have been the reasonable and logical inferences from the evidence that was adduced. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court would not know what the jury discussed over those many hours. Attorney Schoenhorn: What the court can find is this. Attorney Schoenhorn: It was clear during the jury charge, jury instructions, that the court instructed the jury that it may draw any reasonable and logical inferences from the facts found to have been proven. Attorney Schoenhorn: Based on the verdict, the jury could have found the following reasonable Attorney Schoenhorn: and logical inferences. Attorney Schoenhorn: Fotis Dulos was not home at Fort Jefferson Crossing the morning of May 24th, Attorney Schoenhorn: when his wife was murdered, but the defendant said he was home. Attorney Schoenhorn: When the defendant admitted that he was not home, the defendant Attorney Schoenhorn: who had been angry about Dulos' talking to other women did not even ask him where he had been. Attorney Schoenhorn: The defendant who was angry that he had visited his wife did not ask him Attorney Schoenhorn: if he had visited her. Attorney Schoenhorn: In fact, the defendant, as the court remembers the evidence, didn't ask him anything. Attorney Schoenhorn: The jury could draw a reasonable and logical inference that the defendant knew where he was, and knew what he was doing. Attorney Schoenhorn: The defendant said she saw a case of the defendant who had visited her. Attorney Schoenhorn: They saw Kent Mawinney and Fotis Dulos together in the office at Fort Jefferson Crossing on the morning of May 24th. Attorney Schoenhorn: But the defendant did not see Fotis Dulos and Kent Mawinney in the office at Fort Jefferson Crossing on the morning of May 24th. Attorney Schoenhorn: There was a phone call made to Dulos' phone which Dulos left intentionally at Fort Jefferson Crossing. Attorney Schoenhorn: The defendant answered it and the jury could draw a reasonable and logical inference from all of the evidence that the defendant answered the phone to make it appear that Dulos took the call himself. Attorney Schoenhorn: On the morning of May 24th, at Fort Jefferson Crossing, when he was really on his way to or in New Canaan. Attorney Schoenhorn: When a police officer came to Fort Jefferson Crossing, soon after the murder of the murder of Dulos, Attorney Schoenhorn: The defendant answered the phone to make it appear that Dulos took the call himself. Attorney Schoenhorn: On the morning of May 24th at Fort Jefferson Crossing, when he was really on his way to or in New Canaan. Attorney Schoenhorn: When a police officer came to Fort Jefferson Crossing, soon after the murder, the defendant did not even go to the door, even though her daughter, who was not home, may have been the subject of that conversation at the door. Attorney Schoenhorn: Now, it has been clear that the defendant was on his way to or in New Canaan. Attorney Schoenhorn: If the defendant cares deeply for her daughter, the jury could draw a reasonable and logical inference that the defendant did not go to the door because the defendant knew the reason the officer was there, to find out more about the disappearance of Jennifer Dulo. Attorney Schoenhorn: These are reasonable and logical inferences from the facts that were induced of the case. Attorney Schoenhorn: During the trial. Attorney Schoenhorn: The defendant traveled through a part of Hartford with Dulos as he dumps the bloody clothing of his wife. Attorney Schoenhorn: The jury could draw a reasonable and logical inference that on the same day, the defendant helped him pretend he was home in the morning, but in the evening accompanied him to get rid of the evidence. Attorney Schoenhorn: The defendant's DNA profile was found on one of the bags disposed of in Hartford. Attorney Schoenhorn: The jury could draw a reasonable and logical inference that the defendant helped dispose of the evidence knowingly. Attorney Schoenhorn: The jury could draw a reasonable and logical inference that the defendant helped Fotis Dulos clean up traces of evidence at 80 Mountain Spring Road because the defendant and Dulos were there together cleaning. Attorney Schoenhorn: On the same day that Tacoma traveled to New Canaan. Attorney Schoenhorn: This is a flurry of irregular activity all on the same day. Attorney Schoenhorn: The jury could draw a reasonable and logical inference that the activities of that day were so irregular that the defendant could not possibly forget them in the span of two weeks. Attorney Schoenhorn: Even if the jurors individually had doubts about the defendant's guilt, Attorney Schoenhorn: Each one of them ultimately concluded that their doubts were not reasonable. Attorney Schoenhorn: This is not a view of the court's view of the evidence. Attorney Schoenhorn: These are logical and reasonable inferences that the jury could have drawn. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court is going to talk a little about the philosophy of sentencing. Attorney Schoenhorn: It's not the product of the court's passions of prejudices. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court doesn't have a bond with anyone involved in the case. Attorney Schoenhorn: It's a dispassionate exercise. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court did not investigate the case. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court did not talk to the victims. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court has no conversation with the defendant, nor the defendant's family. Attorney Schoenhorn: So there are some questions that are age old. Attorney Schoenhorn: Does the court, the sentencing court, adopt the public opprobrium? Attorney Schoenhorn: The indignation of the community? Attorney Schoenhorn: When does retribution turn into revenge? Attorney Schoenhorn: What's the role of empathy? Attorney Schoenhorn: Should the court exercise sympathy for one side or another? Attorney Schoenhorn: These are age old questions. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court relies on what the law says. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court can consider. Attorney Schoenhorn: The nature and circumstances of the offense. Attorney Schoenhorn: The history, background and character of the offender. Attorney Schoenhorn: Every exercise is not an either or or exercise. Attorney Schoenhorn: Often, the good and the bad are true. Attorney Schoenhorn: What is the purpose of the court taking into consideration the victim impact? Attorney Schoenhorn: What is the purpose of the court taking into consideration the victim impact statements? Attorney Schoenhorn: Is that only for the purpose of sympathy?
[03:39:18] Speaker 5: Attorney Schoenhorn: Yes.
[03:39:20] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: The court uses the victim impact statement to assign, in its view, the proper weight to any one of those traditional purposes of sentencing. Attorney Schoenhorn: Sentencing is not arbitrary or capricious. Attorney Schoenhorn: It's not a matter of how the judge feels that day. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court wants to also address what has become, over the course of, perhaps centuries, perhaps not a cliché. Attorney Schoenhorn: Michelle Traconis' life is in your hands. Attorney Schoenhorn: Michelle Traconis' life is in her own hands. Attorney Schoenhorn: What Michelle Traconis decides to do today, tomorrow, and the next day is up to her. Attorney Schoenhorn: From what the court has heard, she has a great deal to offer. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court has no control over what her decisions will be. Attorney Schoenhorn: Her life is hers. Attorney Schoenhorn: The following sentences are going to run concurrently. Attorney Schoenhorn: On the count charging conspiracy to commit murder. Attorney Schoenhorn: "20 years execution suspended after 14 and a half years to serve. Attorney Schoenhorn: Five years probation." Attorney Schoenhorn: Tampering with physical evidence. Attorney Schoenhorn: Five years execution suspended after four years. Attorney Schoenhorn: Five years probation. Attorney Schoenhorn: Conspiracy to tamper with physical evidence. Attorney Schoenhorn: Five years execution suspended after four years. Attorney Schoenhorn: Five years probation. Attorney Schoenhorn: The second count of tampering with physical evidence. Attorney Schoenhorn: Five years execution suspended after four years. Attorney Schoenhorn: Five years probation. Attorney Schoenhorn: Hindering prosecution. Attorney Schoenhorn: Five years execution suspended after four years probation. Attorney Schoenhorn: After four years rather five years probation. Attorney Schoenhorn: Total effective sentence. Attorney Schoenhorn: 20 years execution suspended after 14 and one half years. Attorney Schoenhorn: Five years probation. Attorney Schoenhorn: Two years probation. Attorney Schoenhorn: You will have an opportunity to challenge every finding that the jury made and every ruling that the court made. Attorney Schoenhorn: Madam Clerk, you can give the defendant her notice of right to appeal. Attorney Schoenhorn: Judge, I'm going to orally state that Mr. Conis does intend to appeal, and I'm going to ask the court to set a reasonable appeal bond.
[03:42:05] Speaker 4: Attorney Schoenhorn: I will state that the appeal bond that the court set was not something that Ms. Conis or her family were able to meet. Attorney Schoenhorn: I'm asking for something more in line with what she had been released on bond for for the last five years. Attorney Schoenhorn: I would note that after your honor went on vacation, the state asked for additional conditions which included Attorney Schoenhorn: making her move to Connecticut and remain within the bounds of Connecticut. Attorney Schoenhorn: My position, your honor, is the court obviously took that into consideration when it set that high bond that she was not a resident of Connecticut because that's what the state had then argued. Attorney Schoenhorn: I'm asking that if she's going to be released, that the court set a $2 million bond, but with a condition that she reside in Connecticut and not leave without permission.
[03:43:11] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: Well, counsel, the court is going to decline to set an appeal bond. Attorney Schoenhorn: It's not a constitutional right. Attorney Schoenhorn: Has the defendant signed the notice of right to appeal? Attorney Schoenhorn: We'll stand adjourned.
[03:43:25] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: All rise. Attorney Schoenhorn: The court is now adjourned.
[03:43:25] Speaker 1: Attorney Schoenhorn: He's next in the courtroom. Attorney Schoenhorn: All right. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[03:43:28] Speaker 5: Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[03:43:30] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[03:43:31] Speaker 5: Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you.
[03:43:33] Speaker ?: Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you. Attorney Schoenhorn: Thank you.