Long Island Man Admits Killing Neighbor, Hiding Body in Closet

A Long Island man has admitted strangling his neighbor to death and storing the victim's body in a closet.

Aston Barth of Central Islip pleaded guilty Tuesday just before his murder trial was set to begin in Suffolk County criminal court in Riverhead.

Barth said he killed 35-year-old Jason Campbell during an argument in Barth's home in December 2012.

Barth said he used an ax to partially decapitate the corpse. He then said he wrapped the body in a blanket and trash bag and stashed it in his closet.

Barth's mother and brother later found the victim.

Prosecutors say the victim's family described Barth and Campbell as longtime friends.

He faces 15 years to life when he is sentenced Feb. 26.

Contact Us