CENTRAL ISLIP, N.Y., Dec. 26 (UPI) -- Relatives of a convicted robber with a history of mental illness found a body hidden in his bedroom closet on Christmas Eve, police in New York state said.
Investigators said Aston Barth, 33, of Central Islip on Long Island, admitted killing his friend and neighbor, Jason Campbell, Newsday reported.
Barth allegedly said he choked Campbell, 35, during a fight, Glenn Kurtzrock, an assistant Suffolk County district attorney, said.
Barth was arraigned Tuesday and ordered held without bail pending another hearing. He could be sentenced to 25 years to life if he is found guilty of murder.
Barth allegedly killed Campbell a week.
Kurtzrock said Barth's family had been disturbed by his behavior.
"He was acting strange and said, 'Don't go into my room,' " Kurtzrock said.
Barth's mother said her son has a history of mental illness.
Barth has been convicted three times of robbery.
