Both Sides Rest in Sioux Falls Rape and Murder Trial

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Both sides have rested in the trial of a man accused of murder, rape and burglary in the death of a Sioux Falls woman last year.

KELO-TV reports that the defense attorney for 42-year-old Christopher Kryger rested his case Wednesday without calling any witnesses. The move came after Minnehaha County Deputy State's Attorney Eric Johnson wrapped up more than a week of testimony.

Kryger has pleaded not guilty in the slaying of 56-year-old Kari Anne Kirkegaard, who was found dead in her bathtub on March 16, 2014. Authorities say she had been strangled.

Prosecutors say DNA and other evidence shows that Kryger raped and killed Kirkegaard. Kryger maintains he and Kirkegaard had consensual sex, and that he did not kill her.

Attorney closing arguments were scheduled Thursday.

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