D.A.: No basis to arrest Skyler Kauffman's alleged killer earlier
(CBS/KYW/AP) SOUDERTON, Pa. - Police are defending their actions in not previously arresting James Troutman, the man charged with the murder, kidnapping and sexual assault of his 9-year-old neighbor, Skyler Kauffman.
She and a friend used the bathroom in Troutman's apartment three weeks to the day before her death Monday night.
According to court documents, Skyler and a friend asked to use Troutman's bathroom and became nervous when they saw pictures of naked women on the walls. They also reported they had to unlock the door to get out, reports CBS affiliate KYW.
District attorney Risa Ferman says what happened three weeks ago didn't appear to rise to the level of criminal activity.
"While I don't have all of the facts that transpired that day, it certainly seems to me that you have to have a crime take place in order to file charges," DA Ferman said, reports the station.
The girls also reported that Troutman made a vulgar comment to them. Skyler's neighbors wondered whether police had the chance to stop her alleged killer.
Troutman, 24, was arrested Tuesday after a detective noticed what appeared to be blood on his shoes. According to court documents, Troutman told detectives he used his hands to choke Skyler to death in the basement of their apartment building. After he allegedly murdered her, court documents show he told police he put Skyler's body in a dumpster.
Troutman is being held without bail on charges of first degree murder, kidnapping and sexual assault.