The married couple accused of keeping three children locked in their bedrooms for nearly two years were arraigned in Pima County Superior Court on Friday, entering pleas of not guilty.

Fernando Hernandez Richterο»Ώ and Sophia Leeann Richterο»Ώ were charged with kidnapping and child abuse in connection with allegations they kept her three daughters confined within the narrow limits of their bedrooms for nearly two years.

Fernando Richter, 34, also faces aggravated assault charges for allegedly threatening two of the girls with a knife.

He was also accused in a separate case of assaulting a corrections officer while in the Pima County Jail.

Fernando Richter showed little emotion during Friday’s brief video-court hearing. ο»Ώο»Ώ

Aο»Ώ large black and blue mark was visible beneath Fernando Richter’s left eye when he faced the camera. No explanation was given for the bruise, which was not there when he was booked into jail.


Become a #ThisIsTucson member! Your contribution helps our team bring you stories that keep you connected to the community. Become a member today.

Contact reporter Patrick McNamara at 573-4241 or pmcnamara@azstarnet.com. On Twitter @pm929.