Gregory Graf, Charged With Necrophilia Killing, To Stand Trial

EASTON, Pa. (AP) — A defense attorney says he's considering a mental health defense for a Pennsylvania man charged with homicide and abuse of a corpse in the death of his stepdaughter.

Fifty-three-year-old Gregory Graf waived a preliminary hearing Friday in the death of 33-year-old Jessica Padgett.

Northampton County District Attorney John Morganelli says the defense waived the hearing after viewing a videotape that authorities allege Graf made of himself sexually abusing the victim's body. Morganelli has said necrophilia was Graf's motive.

Defense attorney John McMahon said he will seek a mental health evaluation, although he's unaware of prior mental problems.

Authorities say Padgett was last seen Nov. 21. Her body was later found buried behind a shed on the property where Graf lives with her mother.