Both Men Could Face Life in Prison if Convicted

Two men pleaded not guilty to murder charges in Muskingum County Common Pleas Court Wednesday morning.

32-year-old Howard Harper of Cambridge and 45-year-old Thomas Phillips of Coshocton were charged following an incident at the New Concord Square Apartments in May.

Officials say 43-year-old Darlie Dean Ross of New Concord was killed when the three men got into an altercation.

Harper has also been indicted on an aggravated burglary charge.

Both men could face life in prison if they are convicted.