Ariel Castro, Supected Ohio Kidnapper, Pleads Not Guilty to Kidnapping, Rape and Murder [VIDEO]
Ariel Castro pleaded not guilty on Wednesday to kidnapping and raping three women in Cleveland, Ohio for almost a decade, ABC News reported.
Castro was charged with 329 counts of rape, torture and murder. Amanda Berry, Michelle Knight and Gina DeJesus are the three women Castro is accused of holding hostage for more than a decade in his home. The women were repeatedly raped, beaten and bound by chains before being rescued May 6 according to police reports. Berry sought the help of neighbors who came to her, her fellow captives and a small child. During the time of her alleged captivity, Berry gave birth to a daughter in December 2002 that Knight was forced to deliver. DNA tests conducted in May proved that Castro is the father of the 6-year-old.
Judge Lauren C. Moore declared the charges against Castro were a "hefty indictment". Moore agreed to Castro's lawyer's request to waive his right to hear the charges read aloud in court. Castro did not speak during the court proceedings as the plea was entered by an attorney for the bearded Castro.
Following the appearance in court, Castro's representatives spoke to the press. Craig Weintraub said that both the defense and prosecution could work together "towards a resolution to avoid a trial". Weintraub also sought to have the threat of death removed and urged prosecutors to drop the aggravated murder charge.
The aggravated murder charge is a result of Castro allegedly terminating the pregnancies of Knight. Knight disappeared in August 2002. At first, police initially believed she may have left because she lost custody of her child. However, Knight told officials that she was repeatedly raped and beaten by Castro. She became pregnant at least five times during her captivity. Knight told police that Castro induced miscarriages by starving and beating her.
A lawyer representing the women offered a comment on Castro's plea.
"We understand the legal process needs to run its course. That said, days like today are not easy. We are hopeful for a just and prompt resolution. We have great faith in the prosecutor's office and the court," James Wooley said.
