New Bedford murder suspect appears in court, held without bail

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WLNE) — A New Bedford man who allegedly shot and killed a 60-year-old man was in court Tuesday.

Christopher Smith, 38, appeared in New Bedford District Court for arraignment in the murder of Ronald Sinclair and pleaded not guilty and was held without bail.

Smith, 38, allegedly shot Sinclair at approximately 2:30 p.m. on April 29.

Sinclair had been rushed to a local hospital and died from his injuries on May 3.

Smith’s charges were updated to murder after Sinclair succumbed to his injuries.

Smith has a lengthy criminal history.

In 2016, he was sentenced up to six years in prison for kidnapping, breaking and entering and strangulation.

In 2014, he was also charged with rape and aggravated assault.

He is due back in court on June 17 for a probable cause hearing.