The man charged with murder in connection to the death of a Pike County sheriff's deputy pleads not guilty.

David Wayne Childers appeared in Friday afternoon. Police say he caused a wreck that killed Deputy James Thacker last month.

Thacker's family and friends faced Childers in court. The commonwealth's attorney did not allow them to speak on camera, but they told us they want justice for loved one's death.

Family, friends and co-workers of the late James I. Thacker packed the Pike County Courtroom. The family wanted to see the man they claim took their husband, father, son, and brother.

Police say on January 23rd, David Wayne Childers crossed the center line on US-460 and hit Thacker's cruiser head on. He died at the scene.
Police say they found drug paraphernalia in Childers' SUV.

A grand jury indicted him on murder and persistent felony offender charges.

"Through your attorney, you waive formal arraignment and enter a plea of not guilty. You're going to be held without bond," Judge Steven Combs told Childers in court.

Thacker's family told us they are still grieving and feel like Childers showed no remorse in court.

Childers defense attorney did not comment on the case. The commonwealth's attorney also declined to comment.

Judge Steven Combs said he will consider bond if the defense attorney files a written motion.

A pre-trial conference for the case is scheduled for April 27.