The man accused of setting an Akron house on fire and killing seven people contacted News 5 to proclaim his innocence.
Stanley Ford, 58, telephoned News 5 twice on Wednesday. During the second call to reporter Bob Jones, Ford said he was innocent and needed help, adding the situation he's in is serious.
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Ford also told Jones he'd rather meet face-to-face. On Thursday morning, he agreed to talk through a video visit at the Summit County Jail.
However, Ford would not sit down, show his face or answer important questions on the record, including his whereabouts on the morning of the fire, and why police think he committed the crime.
Ford is facing one count of aggravated arson and seven counts of aggravated murder, and prosecutors have said they may consider seeking the death penalty.
Police believe Ford intentionally set a Fultz Street home on fire in the early morning hours of May 15, killing Angela Boggs, Dennis Huggins, and their five children, Jared Boggs, Daisia Huggins, Kyle Huggins, Alivia Huggins and Cameron Huggins.
All of the victims died from smoke inhalation.
On Thursday, Ford pleaded not guilty. A judge set his bond his bond at $7 million.
