Judge Chastises Fotis Dulos Over GPS Tracking Device Issues

STAMFORD, CT — Chastising him for being "less than diligent" in keeping the device properly charged, a judge on Monday ordered that Fotis Dulos, a suspect in the disappearance of his estranged wife Jennifer Farber Dulos, do a better job of complying with the terms of his release.

Stamford Superior Court Judge John Blawie also ruled that Dulos cannot attend the upcoming deposition of ex-girlfriend Michelle Troconis in his mother-in-law's civil case against him, but he can observe the deposition by closed-circuit television. Troconis and Fotis Dulos are barred from any contact between them, per a request from her attorney, Andrew Bowman.

Blawie ordered Fotis Dulos to report to court to explain what's happened with the device's batteries which he reportedly had not properly kept recharged, the Stamford Advocate writes.

Since their release on bond in June, both Fotis Dulos and Troconis, who faces the same charges, have been wearing GPS tracking devices.

He filed a court motion in July to have the device moved from his ankle to his wrist, but the request was denied.

A probation official had written to the court that on more than one occasion, Fotis Dulos' device had dropped below a 25 percent charge, which is a warning sign.

"He knows how the device works," Blawie said, adding that if Fotis Dulos does not comply again, he may be sent back to jail or his bond increased.

Attorney Norm Pattis argued that his client doesn't need such a device because he is "eager" to go to trial, and the current bond, which is secured through one of Fotis Dulos' properties, is sufficient to keep him from fleeing the state.

Blawie, however, disagreed.

Pattis also argued that Blawie's recent gag order in the case was unfair, and he had not been allowed to further argue against it. He said he plans to file an appeal on it this week.

"I'm tired of reading about these warrants and law enforcements' 'beliefs' in this case, and I can't comment on them," Pattis said, adding that recent episodes of the "Dr. Oz" and "Dr. Phil" shows discussed the case, which also was unfair to his client.

"These types of orders are common," Blawie said, stressing that he put it in place partly in an effort to ensure the suspects get a fair trial.

Blawie said that Pattis can argue the point when his client is due back in criminal court on Oct. 4. Troconis is due in court on Oct. 10.