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Handyman indicted in murder of Detroit woman Jane Bashara, husband a person of interest

Jane Bashara and Joseph Gentz CBS Detroit

(CBS/WWJ/AP) GROSSE POINTE, Mich. - A handyman has been indicted for the murder of Jane Bashara, a 56-year-old marketing executive and mother of two, who was found strangled in her Mercedes-Benz SUV in a Detroit alley on Jan. 25.

CBS Detroit reports that Joseph Gentz, who was arraigned Monday on charges of first degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder, did odd jobs for the victim's husband, Bob Bashara, who owns commercial and residential properties in the Detroit area.

Gentz was held for three days after Jane Bashara's death but was later released.

Bob Bashara, who police have called a person of interest in his wife's murder, maintains his innocence.

Police have been silent since Gentz's arrest on Friday, other than to say the case remains under investigation.

"We have issued these charges today on Mr. Gentz, but the investigation continues. This case is neither cold nor closed. At the appropriate time further information will released," said Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy in a statement.

More on Crimesider
January 30, 2012 - Family of Detroit man questioned in his wife's murder say he's innocent

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