A man accused of murdering a 9-year-old girl appeared in court on Monday.
Police say that 24-year-old James Troutman raped, beat and killed his neighbor Skyler Kauffman in the basement of their Souderton apartment building back on May 9, 2011.
Kauffman’s body was found only a few hours after she was reported missing in the dumpster of the apartment building. Police say they followed a trail of bloody clothes.
While interviewing Troutman, police noticed blood on his sneaker. Later, he admitted to killing the third grader, wrapping her in a blanket and tossing her in a dumpster, according to court papers.
Prosecutors claimed in court papers filed last October that Troutman believed Kauffman had gotten him in trouble in connection with an incident at his apartment a month before her death. Court papers allege Troutman told a friend he was angry at Kauffman and wanted to "snap" her neck.
Troutman pleaded not guilty back on July 20.While it was initially believed Troutman's trial would begin Monday morning, a Supression Hearing was held instead. During the hearing, the judge analyzed evidence against Troutman to determine what would be allowed at trial.
Det. Christopher Kuklentz testified Monday that Troutman wept as he confessed to the murder and sexual assault.
Defense attorneys are trying to have the alleged statements suppressed, saying Troutman was interrogated over a period of 13 hours. But Kuklentz said the defendant was “very talkative” and was never threatened or coerced.
