Suspect pleads not-guilty to killing McStay family

SAN DIEGO (CNN) – On Wednesday, the man charged with murdering a family of four had a quick appearance before a judge, and pleaded not-guilty.

Chase Merritt is accused of killing the McStay family four years ago.

Joseph, his wife and the couple’s two young son disappeared in 2010.

Their bodies were found last year.

Police arrested McStay’s business associate, Merritt, last week.

He was in court for less than 15 minutes, but it was long enough to tell the judge he’s not guilty.

Merritt will be back in court later this month. If convicted he could get the death penalty.