Lori Vallow Daybell to remain in jail on $1 million bail

REXBURG — Lori Daybell will remain held in an Idaho jail on a $1 million bond, a judge decided Friday afternoon following a spirited argument by Daybell’s attorney seeking to reduce bail based on an accusation that authorities improperly recorded his phone conversations with Daybell.

Daybell’s attorney, Mark Means, also asked the court to consider a “reasonable” bond amount of $100,000 to $250,000 in light of the economic situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Following more than two hours of arguments, Magistrate Judge Michelle Mallard ruled there wasn’t enough evidence to support the motion and denied the request.

“I cannot find any good cause to reduce the bond further than it already has,” she said. “I would advise Mr. Means consult with local defense attorneys who I’m sure have come up with alternatives during this time … about ways to surmount any virus problems at the jail in regards to communicating with clients.”

Daybell, wearing a protective face mask due to COVID-19 precautions, looked down as the ruling was made. She was arrested in Hawaii in February after a monthslong investigation into the disappearance of her two children, Joshua “J.J.” Vallow, 7, and Tylee Ryan, 17, from Rexburg. The two still have not been found after going missing last September.

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