A man accused of killing a retired BPD and Delano police officer pleaded not guilty to the charges on Friday.
John Albert Campos Sr., 47, was escorted into Federal court Friday wearing the typical orange inmate uniform, handcuffed, and one of his arms still in a sling.
Standing next to his attorney, Campos looked forward as his attorney entered in a not guilty plea to federal charges of carjacking and use of a firearm during a crime of violence resulting in death.
Police said Campos tried to carjack FrankPascua, a retired Bakersfield police officer,in the parking lot of the Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino on Christmas Eve last year.
During the attempt, Campos allegedly shot Pascua and ran off. Pascua died.
Authorities and the FBI then endured a week-long manhunt for Campos who was taken into custody on Jan. 1.
Police said they were alerted to Campos after someone reported a suspicious person in the Phoenix area. He tried to get away on a bicycle, but was struck by a truck nearby.
He was taken to the hospital and then into custody.
The judge scheduled March 1 as went Campos' trial will begin in U.S. District Court in Phoenix.
