Lori Vallow Update: Idaho Judge Denies Lowering Bail For Mother Charged With Desertion Of Children

Lori Vallow, on trial in Idaho for the alleged desertion of her two children, will remain in prison on a $1 million bond after a judge denied a request for reduced bail on Friday.

Vallow’s attorney, Mark Means, argued for the reduction after accusing police of improperly recording phone calls he had with Vallow while she was in jail, East Idaho News reported.

“I cannot find any good cause to reduce the bond further than it already has,” Magistrate Judge Michelle Mallard 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.”

Means had attempted to argue for a lower bond, around $100,000-250,000, by citing financial issues from the coronavirus pandemic. Vallow and Means had worn face masks to court during arguments. Vallow's bail had previously been reduced from $5 million in March.

Vallow, 46, faces two charges of desertion and non-support of a dependent child related to the disappearances of her children, Tylee Ryan, 17, and J.J. Vallow, 7. Neither child has been seen since September. Lori Vallow has failed to comply with orders to produce them despite claiming that they are safe.

Police arrested Vallow in Hawaii and extradited her to Idaho in February. Vallow has allegedly fled to the state with current husband, Chad Daybell, who may be complicit in the children’s disappearance, though he is not currently facing any charges.