ST. PAUL, Minn. (WCCO) — The St. Paul man accused of killing his wife and hiding her body entered a plea of not guilty to charges Friday in Ramsey County Court.
Kira Trevino, 30, was last seen more than a month ago. Her husband, 39-year-old Jeffery Trevino, is in jail on murder charges. Police say while they can’t find Kira’s body, there’s enough evidence to lead them to believe he killed her in their home.
On Friday, Jeffery Trevino’s attorney, John Conard, argued in court that he lacks documents and test results that are being withheld, making it hard to evaluate his client’s case.
But the judge ruled that there’s sufficient probable cause to continue towards trial.
Many of Kira’s relatives were present at the hearing. Because of this, eight deputies were encircled around the courtroom to prevent any possible emotional outburst or trouble.
As it happened, the courtroom was absolutely quiet.
Outside, Jeffery Trevino’s family declined any comment. But a close friend of Kira’s says it was hard seeing Jeffery in court.
“It’s a hard feeling, it’s a sickening feeling…and to the family’s point, I want it to be done and over, and justice to be served appropriately,” said Nikki Engel, a family friend.
While the court proceedings took place, many of Kira’s friends and relatives searched Keller Lake in Maplewood for her body. The volunteers drilled dozens of holes in the ice and used cameras to search the lake’s bottom.
“By the time I’m done drilling on this lake, this lake won’t be walkable,” said Mike Teige, Kira’s cousin.
The search comes just hours after a vigil was held on the lake in Kira’s honor.
Jay Steger, her father, said at the vigil that they’re not giving up hope for closure.
“There is no way that we could have ever been able to do this without their help. We’re just a small group of people and with all these people turning out, it was amazing,” Steger said. “I wanted the family to get together with everybody that’s been supporting them one last time before the hearing and to have a sense of family to bring Kira home.”
