An alleged co-conspirator in the case of missing New Canaan
woman Jennifer Dulos was denied a request to have his GPS ankle monitor
removed.
Mawhinney was in custody for nine months on $2 million bond
after being charged with conspiracy to commit murder in January 2020 for Dulos'
disappearance and presumed death. But in October, just a few weeks after meeting
with investigators in the case, the court reduced his bond and ordered GPS
monitoring as a condition of his release.
The prosecution later said Mawhinney would likely
testify against co-defendant Michelle Troconis at trial.
In court Tuesday, attorney Jeffery Kestenband argued
Mawhinney has not been able to make a living since his arrest a year and a half
ago when he lost his law license. Kestenband said Mawhinney now has an
opportunity to referee adult hockey games in the Hartford area, which could
earn him up to $1,000 a week.
However, Mawhinney can't wear hockey skates with the GPS
ankle monitor.
“This isn't a situation where he could walk into a store or
some other job and just apply given the nature of the charges he has pending
against him,” said Kestenband. “And also, just the general notoriety that this
case has received.”
Assistant State's Attorney Dan Cummings objected to
removing this condition, citing the seriousness of the charges and that Judge
John F. Blawie had denied a similar request from Troconis. She had asked to go
skiing with her daughter.
“There are many defendants who come through this court who
are able to find gainful employment while being monitored,” said Cummings.
Investigators say the two conspired with Fotis Dulos to
kill his estranged wife, Jennifer Dulos. The mother of five was last seen
dropping her kids off at school in New Canaan on May 24, 2019.
Judge Blawie ruled continued GPS monitoring was
"necessary and appropriate." He asked if there was any way to modify
a skate to allow the monitor and suggested working with those who monitor
the device to see if there was anything that could be done.
Troconis has a remote hearing on May 25.