Former ‘American Idol’ contestant charged with murdering wife, staging crime scene to mislead police

Authorities in Ohio have arrested a former contestant from American Idol, accusing him of fatally shooting his wife and attempting to stage the scene to throw off investigators.

Caleb Flynn, 39, entered a not guilty plea Friday to charges including murder, felonious assault and tampering with evidence. Appearing by video from jail, Flynn told the court, “I just want to take care of my daughters. I’m not a risk.”

Samuel Huffman set bond at $2 million.

Police said Ashley Flynn, 37, was discovered dead Monday after officers responded to a reported burglary and shooting at a home in Tipp City. 

According to a statement from the Tipp City Police Department, her husband and the couple’s two children were inside the residence when officers arrived.

Investigators allege the scene had been manipulated in an effort to mislead authorities about what occurred. The case remains under investigation.