The man accused of killing TJ Krider, an Elvis impersonator, has been indicted on charges of second-degree manslaughter and tampering with physical evidence.

Ronald Rayher, 70, of Milton, is accused tying up Krider at a home in Milton. He is also accused of giving Krider chloroform multiple times.

The two men had a contract to engage in sexual activity, according to Rayher’s attorney.

Rayher was arraigned Thursday in Saratoga County Court. Assistant District Attorney Jen Buckley said prosecutors are ready for trial. 

Dressed in a suit, Rayher pleaded not guilty to the charges. Judge Jim Murphy set a trial date for Feb. 10. Both sides will submit motions ahead of that.

Rayher remains free on bail and has been ordered to give up his passport.

Rayher’s attorney, Kevin O’Brien, said his client maintains his innocence and he is looking forward to proving that in court.

“This was all consensual acts by two consenting adults who both wanted to be there and participate in these activities, as strange and weird as they may be to some people. These are two people who were happy to be there, who were friends with each other,” he said.

O’Brien added that the lead investigator on the case said that nothing Rayher has said has been false.

“This isn’t a crime. It’s sad for sure, but it isn’t a crime,” he said.

The tampering charge stems from allegations that Rayher disposed of evidence. Krider’s belongings including cell phone, eyeglasses and other personal effects, were not found. Rayher allegedly told investigators that he had planned to dispose of the body but was unable to do so.

O’Brien said Rayher admitted to removing items from the scene. However, he does not believe that shows he was trying to conceal a crime. He said his client may have been in shock from what happened.

“You just walked down to your basement and find your friend, somebody who you cared for very much, in your basement and he’s dead. I think that would scare the hell out of me. That is probably the biggest hurdle if we’re being honest, but I don’t think it’s an insurmountable hurdle at all,” he said.

 O’Brien said he would present any offer that the prosecution makes to his client, but he would not likely accept anything that includes jail time or a felony conviction.

Krider had some supporters in the courtroom.

Kevin Dunbar, who is from Poultney, Vermont, said he grew up with Krider and hung out a lot with him.

“He would do anything for you. He was awesome for everybody,” Dunbar said afterward.

Dunbar said he has been trying to keep the family updated on the case.

“I’ve known his wife for a long time. It’s pretty hard. I’ve been trying to keep her up. It’s not easy. Late nights,” he said.

Dunbar said he does not believe the defense’s argument and thinks there is more to the story.

Rayher is due back in court on Dec. 20 at 1:30 p.m. for a pretrial hearing.

Rayher faces 5 to 15 years in prison on the manslaughter charge and a tampering charge could run consecutive to that sentence.