Kent Mawhinney Accepts Plea Deal in Jennifer Farber Dulos Disappearance Case
Kent Mawhinney, a former attorney once charged in connection with the 2019 disappearance of Jennifer Farber Dulos, has pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of interfering with police, avoiding further prison time. Mawhinney, who originally faced conspiracy to commit murder charges, was sentenced to 11 months — the time he has already served since his 2020 arrest. He was released following the plea agreement.
Family Responds to Plea Deal
Jennifer Farber Dulos’ family and close friends released a statement expressing support for the state’s decision to reduce the charges but emphasized that this plea does not clear Mawhinney of all responsibility.
"Today’s development does not absolve Kent Mawhinney of conspiracy to murder. His arrest warrant includes sufficient evidence for that charge, but the burden of proof is substantial," the statement read. "The conspiracy charge was dropped partly to avoid another lengthy and costly jury trial, both emotionally and financially. We fully support the state’s attorney’s office for their thoughtful approach to justice."
The family also reiterated their ongoing desire for answers about Jennifer’s fate. Six years after her disappearance, many questions remain unresolved. The family believes someone may still hold crucial information about Jennifer’s whereabouts and urges anyone with knowledge to come forward.
"We miss Jennifer every single day and ask for privacy and respect for her loved ones during this difficult time," the statement concluded.
Case Background: The Tragic Disappearance
Jennifer Farber Dulos, a mother of five, vanished on May 24, 2019, after dropping her children off at school in New Canaan, Connecticut. Despite extensive searches, her body has never been found. She was declared legally dead in 2023.
At the time of her disappearance, Jennifer and her estranged husband, Fotis Dulos, were embroiled in a contentious divorce and custody battle. Prosecutors suspected Fotis of orchestrating her murder and allegedly disposing of her body.
Fotis Dulos and Michelle Troconis
Fotis Dulos was initially charged with evidence tampering and later murder, but he died by suicide in January 2020 before standing trial. His former girlfriend, Michelle Troconis, was convicted in March 2024 on multiple charges including conspiracy to commit murder, tampering with evidence, and hindering prosecution. She was sentenced to 14½ years in prison.
Kent Mawhinney’s Role
Mawhinney, a longtime friend and attorney to Fotis Dulos, was accused of assisting in the conspiracy to kill Jennifer. Investigators linked him to efforts to cover up evidence, including disposal tactics and attempts to create false alibis. His original charge was conspiracy to commit murder, but prosecutors ultimately chose to accept the plea to a lesser charge.
Legal Outcome and Reactions
Mawhinney entered his plea under the Alford doctrine, which allows a defendant to plead guilty while maintaining innocence, acknowledging that prosecutors have enough evidence for a conviction. He issued a statement calling Jennifer’s disappearance “a tragedy” and expressed responsibility for it.
The family thanked the state’s attorneys and law enforcement officials for their dedication to the case, highlighting the challenges of prosecuting such a complex matter. They underscored that justice must balance the emotional toll and financial costs associated with prolonged court proceedings.
Ongoing Mystery and Calls for Information
Despite the legal resolutions, Jennifer Farber Dulos’ disappearance continues to haunt the community. Her body remains missing, and key details about the crime are still undisclosed. The family and authorities hold hope that someone with information will come forward, enabling a full resolution to this tragic story.
Summary of Key Details:
- Date of disappearance: May 24, 2019
- Charges against Kent Mawhinney: Originally conspiracy to commit murder; pleaded guilty to interfering with police
- Sentence for Mawhinney: 11 months, time served
- Michelle Troconis: Convicted in 2024; serving 14½ years
- Fotis Dulos: Charged with murder; died by suicide before trial
- Jennifer Farber Dulos: Presumed dead; body not recovered
The case remains one of Connecticut’s most gripping unsolved tragedies, reminding all involved of the enduring impact of loss, justice, and the quest for truth.
