(08/21/07) NEWARK ? The sixth suspect arrested in connection with the brutal schoolyard slayings in Newark pleaded not guilty Tuesday.

Melvin Jovel, 18, entered his plea while standing in shackles. He answered several questions from the judge, including a question about his immigration status. When asked if he had a green card, Jovel said no.

Assistant Essex County Prosecutor Thomas A. McTigue said Jovel?s immigration status is ?unclear.? The New York Times is reporting he is an illegal immigrant from Honduras.

Jovel was arrested at relative?s house in Elizabeth early Sunday morning. His arrest took place 24 hours after two other suspects, Rodolfo Godinez, 24, and his 16-year-old half-brother, Alexander Alfaro, were arrested in the Washington, D.C. area. Godinez is fighting his extradition back to New Jersey.

Jose Carranza, a 28-year-old illegal immigrant from Peru, and two 15-year-olds are also in custody.

Jovel is being held on $2 million bail.

Associated Press wire reports contributed to this story.

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