DENVER (CBS4)- A man accused of killing his wife in a case that sparked debate about police response, appeared in court on Thursday.

Christopher Perea was formally advised of the first degree murder charge against him in the death of Loretta Rosa.

Perea, 41, is also charged with kidnapping.

Police officers found Rosa beaten to death in her south Denver home on Nov. 18. Her family claims she would still be alive if police had been more aggressive in their invetigation.

Loretta Rosa (credit: The Rosa Family)

Perea is being held without bond at the Denver Detention Center.

His next court appearance is scheduled for January 31, 2013.