Chicago

Northwestern Professor Charged With Murder in Fatal Chicago Stabbing

Lathem's attorney, Kenneth H. Wine, said before the hearing that Lathem would plead not guilty.

California prosecutors have charged a Northwestern University professor with murder in connection with the stabbing death of a 26-year-old Chicago man.

Wyndham Lathem was charged in Alameda County on Monday in the July 27 fatal stabbing of Trenton James Cornell-Duranleau, whose body was found that night in Lathem's Chicago apartment.

Lathem and Andrew Warren, an Oxford University financial officer, were on the run for about a week before they surrendered Friday to authorities in Oakland and San Francisco.

Lathem's attorney, Kenneth H. Wine, said before the hearing that Lathem would plead not guilty.

Lathem waived his right to an extradition hearing and should be back in Chicago by Sept. 6. 

Warren doesn't have an initial court appearance scheduled yet.

Wine said the accusations are contrary to the way the suspect has lived his entire life. 

"Since the beginning of this case, the defense has received dozens of calls and letters in support of Dr. Lathem, from friends and colleagues who have known him for decades," Wine said in a statement. "They all describe him in the same way — a kind, intelligent, and gentle soul, and a loyal and trusted friend. What he is accused of is totally contrary to the way he has lived his entire life."

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