DA Will Not Seek Death Penalty Against Anthony Palma

The Oklahoma District Attorney’s office will not seek the death penalty against Anthony Palma.

On Friday morning, Palma made a very brief court appearance for his formal arraignment.

Last month, Palma waived his right to a preliminary hearing, and has continued to maintain his innocence.

His wife, other friends and family members were in the courtroom Friday, June 24. And so was the mother and stepfather of the victim, Kirsten Hatfield.

Palma is accused of kidnapping and killing his 8-year-old neighbor, Kirsten Hatfield, back in 1997. Her body has never been found. But DNA blood evidence found on a pair of Kirsten Hatfield panties found in her yard matched Palma's DNA.

10/13/15 Related Story: Family Of Kirsten Hatfield Speaks About Arrest Of Anthony Joseph Palma

Palma's next court date is set for August 3.