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Man Charged In 2010 Double Homicide In Southwest Michigan

NILES, Mich. (AP) - A man appeared in court Thursday to face charges in the slayings of a southwestern Michigan couple who were beaten stabbed and shot nearly three years ago.

Keith Lintz, 28, of Niles was denied bail during the court appearance on first-degree murder charges and a gun crime.

Carolyn and John Tarwacki were found dead in February 2010 at their home near Niles, 60 miles southwest of Kalamazoo. A statement by the attorney general's office doesn't disclose a motive or why police turned their investigation to Lintz.

An email seeking comment from the Cass County prosecutor was not immediately returned. Lintz asked for a court-appointed attorney during his arraignment.

"This is a tragic case, and we are ready to secure justice and closure for the family and friends of John and Carolyn Tarwacki," Attorney General Bill Schuette said.

The victims worked at a music company in Stevensville, supplying and maintaining instruments for music educators throughout Berrien and Cass counties. There was little evidence at the murder scene to identify possible suspects.

Nearly 800 tips were received, and more than 300 people were interviewed, the attorney general's office said.

(© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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