Indian Head Park Murder Suspect Back in Court

John Wilson plans to plead not guilty, his lawyer says

The man accused of killing a 14-year-old Indian Head Park teen last month made a brief court appearance Thursday for a preliminary hearing.

John Wilson, 38, is accused of stabbing Kelli O'Laughlin in her home last month. Police believe the girl walked in on a burglary in progress.

Wilson's lawyer, John P. Carroll, told reporters this week that Wilson will plead not guilty to first-degree murder and residential burglary charges. Wilson has said in court that he's long-battled with mental illness.

On Oct. 27, O'Laughlin was found stabbed to death, her house ransacked, and a bowl of coins, O'Laughlin's cell phone and an iPod Touch were stolen. Wilson was arrested days later, and his bond was denied.

Wilson has been behind bars for 17 of the last 20 years and has been convicted on charges ranging from carjacking, spitting on a prison corrections officer, possessing a stolen vehicle, robbery and drug possession.

He was on parole at the time he's accused of committing this latest crime.

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