The man accused of killing a 9-year-old Montgomery County girl in May pleaded not guilty in court Wednesday morning.
Police say that 24-year-old James Troutman raped, beat and killed his neighbor Skyler Kauffman in the basement of their Souderton apartment building on May 9.
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 are seeking the death penalty in the case.
Troutman's trial is set to begin on January 9, 2012, according to the Delaware County Daily Times.
