Man faces murder charge for girlfriend's death

Thursday, February 17th 2005, 6:53 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- A Cache man could get life in prison if he is convicted of murdering his girlfriend by binding her arms and legs with duct tape and covering her head with a plastic bag.

A federal grand jury has issued an indictment accusing Jon Kent Red Elk killing Regina Dupler. The death was investigated by federal officials because it occurred on Indian land.

Dupler suffocated shortly after midnight January 7th, according to an affidavit filed to support Red Elk's arrest.

Red Elk has said he didn't murder Dupler, but helped her commit suicide.

Authorities who invested the crime scene say a short chain was found next to Dupler's body and a drawing in the room showed a woman hanging by ropes or chains around her hands and legs. The picture also showed a man's profile watching.

Dupler's body was found lying on the bed and a torn white plastic bag was over her head and taped to her neck with duct tape.

Remnants of adhesive clung to Dupler's arms, which appeared bruised. A pile of crumpled duct tape lay on the floor.