Stalker Suspect Pleads Innocent

Accused Night Stalker Richard Ramirez pleaded not guilty to charges of 14 murders and 31 other felonies at his arraignment today in Los Angeles Superior Court. Ramirez, 26, spoke only once during the brief hearing, saying “Yeah,” when asked by Judge Aurelio Munoz whether he would agree to a delay in his trial, which by law would start within 60 days.

Ramirez, being held without bail, was ordered to return to court June 17 for a trial-setting conference. His attorney, Arturo Hernandez, said he plans to request that Ramirez’s trial be moved out of Los Angeles County due to extensive publicity--a request the district attorney’s office will oppose.