Attorney for man accused of killing girlfriend says he's innocent

Cando, N.D. (AP) The attorney for a man accused of killing a former girlfriend and setting her body on fire says he's innocent.

Fifty-five-year-old Steven Torkelsen is on trial in Cando, in the death of 48-year-old Rebecca Flaa. Her body was found burning in a ditch in June 2004, near Cando.

Torkelsen's attorney, Thomas Merrick, says Torkelsen's parents can provide an alibi for him.

Prosecutors say witnesses saw Torkelsen putting gas cans and other items in his parents' garage, and that Flaa's blood and hair were found on his boots.

Torkelsen pleaded guilty to killing Flaa two years ago and was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

The state Supreme Court sent the case back to district court last year saying police had no reason to stop Torkelsen and search his truck and camper.

(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 05-02-07 1625CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list