Kevin Rubletz denies murdering Jessica Newman

Kevin Rubletz says he did not kill his ex-girlfriendJessica Newman, according to his lawyer who spoke following a briefappearance in a Calgary courtroom this morning.

The 30-year-old Calgary manwas denied legal aid and the judge heard today that he will be asking the court to order the government to pay for his lawyer, Brendan Miller.

Rubletz is charged with second-degree murder following aninvestigation that began as a missing persons case.

• Kevin Rubletz charged with 2nd-degree murder
• Jessica Rae Newman's death ruled a homicide

Newmanwas last seen on March 10 in the Forest Lawn community of southeast Calgary.

A work crew discovered the 24-year-old'sbody in a ditch in a rural area north of the cityon May 4.

Newman and Rubletz had a child together and had been in conflict over custody.

Four of Newman's friends and family members showed up at court today, as well as a number of police officers who were involved in the investigation.

Prosecutor Shane Parker says the Crown needs 30 to45 days before disclosure will be ready to hand over to Rubletz's lawyer.

Miller says his client will likely seek bail in the future.