Suspect in student’s death pleads not guilty

Brittany Moseley

Adrian Barker, one of two men charged in the death of Kent State student Christopher Kernich, pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder today in the Court of Common Pleas in Ravenna.

Barker’s attorney, Michael Lear, asked that Barker’s bond remain set at $75,000. He said Barker has no previous felony convictions, is a lifelong resident of Ohio and was a student at the University of Akron. County prosecutor Victor Vigluicci sought a bond of $2 million. Judge John Enlow set bond at $1 million.

Barker’s pre-trial is Jan. 29, and his trial is Feb. 1.

Ronald Kelly, also has been charged with two counts of murder in Kernich’s death. His arraignment is Monday, Dec. 14.

Kernich, 23, of Fairborn, died Nov. 21 from injuries he suffered from an assault Nov. 15 off campus.

Contact public affairs reporter Brittany Moseley at [email protected].