Caleb Flynn firmly denies all charges Husband and his two children were present when officers arrived

Authorities in the U.S. state of Ohio have arrested a former contestant on "American Idol" and charged him with violently assaulting his wife and tampering with the crime scene to mislead investigators.

According to the Associated Press, Caleb Flynn (39) denied all charges against him, including assault and evidence tampering, during a Friday court session. He told Judge Samuel Hoffman in a video call from jail: "I just want to care for my daughters. I do not pose a danger to anyone." His bail was set at $2 million.

His wife, Ashley Flynn (37), was found at their home last Monday after authorities received a report of a shooting and assault in Tiff City. The husband and their two children were present when officers arrived.

"Deliberate and careful pace"

In an emergency call released by the police, Caleb Flynn said he "saw someone break into his home, which resulted in his wife's death," adding that he did not know if the intruder was still present.

His lawyer, Patrick Mulligan, expressed frustration and concern over the apparent speed of the legal process, stating that Flynn "fears a rushed judgment that could lead to a wrongful conviction." Flynn was arrested on Thursday.

Tiff City Police Chief Greg Adkins defended the investigation, saying it proceeded at a "deliberate and careful pace" to ensure all evidence was thoroughly collected, rather than in a rushed manner.