Suspect Charged in NYC Murder

Police returned Justin Waller to Manhattan Tuesday night and charged him with second-degree murder in the death of John Lea (pictured), a New York City event planner.

Waller, 37, is accused of stabbing Lea, 41, over a dispute about not paying rent. The victim was found dead in his Hell's Kitchen apartment last Thursday, with his throat slashed and defensive wounds indicating he fought for his life.

According to the New YorkDaily News , Waller and Lea became boyfriends and lived together with Lea on West 46th Street after they met at a gym a few months ago.

Some reports have indicated that Lea was preparing to ask Waller to leave.

Police tracked Waller to his former home of Manchester, Vermont, based on his use of the victim's credit cards. The suspect admitted his crime when he was apprehended.

Waller faces up to 25 years in jail if convicted.