The attorney for the Saratoga County man accused of killing an Elvis impersonator said that the two men had a contract to engage in sexual activity.

Ronald G. Rayher, 69, of Milton, is charged with second-degree manslaughter for allegedly using a chemical agent such as chloroform to cause the death of Thomas J. Krider at his home in Milton, police said.

Rayher’s attorney, Kevin O’Brien, said after an appearance by his client in Saratoga County Court on Thursday that Rayher had a signed contract with Krider, who he had known for years and had a relationship.

“They were involved in stuff that some people may find shocking or distasteful – depending on what their own situation is, but nothing illegal,” he said.  

O’Brien did not get into specifics, but said that Krider, who also went by T.J. Greene, had requested the document.

O’Brien had unsuccessfully argued that his client’s bail should be lowered or he should even be released to the supervision of probation.

Earlier in court, he told Judge Jim Murphy that his client has no criminal record and is not a flight risk. He has deep ties to the community for 35 years and has a family with multiple children. He works part time as a chiropractor.

He acknowledged that his client was nervous, but a few days later, ultimately walked into the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office to report the death. He has provided the bulk of the information in the case.

Assistant District Attorney Jessica Buckley said the town judge lowered the bail to $100,000 cash, $200,000 bond or $1.5 million partially secured bond. It originally was set at $250,000 cash, $500,000 bond or $2.5 million partially secured bond. The case has been held over for possible grand jury action.

Buckley also pointed out that during the processing of Rayher’s residence, investigators found a passport along with plane tickets for an upcoming trip to Europe.

She also alleged that Rayher disposed of evidence, saying that the victim’s belongings including cell phone, eyeglasses and other personal effects have not been located.  

Buckley also said when interviewed, Rayher told investigators that he had planned to dispose of the body, but was unable to do so.

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

O’Brien said there is no evidence that Rayher disposed of evidence.

Judge Murphy kept bail the same.

O’Brien said after the court appearance that his client had purchased those tickets months before this incident and had a passport because he has traveled to Europe before. He is not a flight risk.

“He wants to clear his name just as much as the next person. He knows he didn’t do anything wrong here. He knows that we’re going to be successful in our pursuit of justice,” he said.

O’Brien said Rayher did not dispose of the body. Just saying someone is going to do something is not a crime. He said his client was unsure what to do and anyone would be terrified in that situation.

“I think what they’re trying to do is simply dirty up Mr. Rayher, which is not going to be easy for them to do because he is a man of high moral principles and he’s not been in trouble before,” O’Brien said.  

O’Brien believes his client will be vindicated because the case is weak.

“I’m very confident that they don’t have anything right now,” he said.