Suspect Pleads Not Guilty To Murdering Partner Whose Head Was Found In Griffith Park
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — A 38-year-old man Monday pleaded not guilty to killing and dismembering his partner, whose head and other body parts were discovered in Griffith Park in 2012.
Gabriel Campos-Martinez was arrested in Texas on March 9 for the murder of 66-year-old Hervey Medellin.
Medellin's head was found inside a plastic grocery bag by hikers near the Hollywood sign on Jan. 17, 2012.
Campos-Martinez filed a missing person report for Medellin the day before the remains were found. The victim was described as his "domestic partner" in the search warrant affidavit. Police say the pair had been living together for about six months prior to the alleged murder.
Medellin, who prosecutors believe was killed on or about Dec. 27, 2011, died from asphyxiation.
Campos-Martinez faces up to 25 years to life in prison if convicted, according to officials. He is due back in court April 16.
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