Crime Junkie
Crime Junkie
"The biggest question still remains Where is Jennifer Farber-Dulos?" — Ashley Flowers
"They're talking about putting down their family dog... calling Jennifer a bitch and said that she should be buried in the backyard next to the dog." — Britt
"The only diabolical people we have here are Photos and Michelle." — Ashley Flowers
This episode chronicles the disappearance of Jennifer Farber-Dulos, a mother of five, who vanished from her Connecticut mansion in May 2019 amidst a highly contentious divorce from her husband, Fotis Dulos. The investigation, initially a missing person case, quickly escalated to a murder investigation following the discovery of blood spatter in Jennifer's vehicle and further evidence of a meticulous cleanup. Surveillance footage of Fotis Dulos dumping trash bags in Hartford became crucial, revealing a coordinated effort to dispose of evidence, including Jennifer's clothing and items covered in her blood, along with tools for a cleanup.
The investigation delved into the tumultuous relationship between Jennifer and Fotis, characterized by significant financial dependence on Jennifer's family, a lavish lifestyle, and Fotis's alleged extramarital affair with Michelle Troconis. As the divorce proceedings intensified, so did the animosity, with Jennifer expressing fear for her safety and children. Fotis and Michelle were eventually charged with hindering prosecution and tampering with evidence, as their elaborate alibis, crafted with handwritten timelines, unraveled under scrutiny. The case detailed the challenges faced by investigators, including the missing body and the defense's attempts to portray Jennifer as the architect of her own disappearance.
Ultimately, the prosecution built a case suggesting Fotis Dulos murdered Jennifer, with Michelle Troconis and Kent Douglas (a friend of Fotis) allegedly aiding in the disposal of evidence and the obstruction of justice. While Fotis Dulos died by suicide before his trial, Michelle Troconis was convicted of conspiracy to commit murder and other charges, receiving a 14.5-year sentence. The episode also touched upon the broader issue of domestic violence and the challenges victims face when leaving abusive partners, referencing Jennifer's Law, a piece of legislation aimed at protecting victims of coercive control.