PHOENIX (AP) - A Phoenix couple has pleaded not guilty to charges that they abused and tortured a mentally disabled man who later died.
Maricopa County prosecutors say 27-year-old Carlena Pinkerton and 31-year-old Joshua Pinkerton entered their pleas Wednesday. Their next scheduled court date is Aug. 7.
The married couple was arrested June 4 in the death of 22-year-old James Roy Moore, who authorities say is Carlena Pinkerton's brother.
Phoenix police say the Pinkertons left Moore at Phoenix Indian Hospital on June 1 and he died at the facility later that day.
Authorities say Moore had multiple fractures and a collapsed lung and was suffering from malnutrition and dehydration.
Investigators claim Moore was kept for long periods in a 2-by-4-foot room containing only a water heater and a drain in the Pinkerton home.
Follow this story: 2 caregivers arrested, charged with murder
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