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Timeline: Christian Karl Gerhartsreiter

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1961

Christian Karl Gerhartsreiter is born in Bergen, Germany.

1978

An exchange student, he moves to Berlin, Conn.

October 1983

John Sohus, a Jet Propulsion Laboratory worker, and Linda Sohus, an artist and bookstore clerk, marry, live in John’s mother’s San Marino home.

Mid-1980s

Gerhartsreiter, going by the name Christopher Chichester, appears in San Marino, moves into Sohus guesthouse.

February 1985

John and Linda Sohus disappear, having told friends of a mysterious business trip. Gerhartsreiter leaves the area.

1989-90

In Connecticut, Gerhartsreiter tries to give an acquaintance a truck formerly owned by John Sohus.

1994

Bones believed to be John Sohus’ remains are discovered by a pool construction crew in the backyard of former Sohus home.

1994-95

Gerhartsreiter marries Sandra Boss.

2007

Boss and Gerhartsreiter divorce.

July 2008

Gerhartsreiter is arrested in Maryland for kidnapping his daughter during a supervised visit. Murder probe heats up with investigations based in Boston, L.A.

March 2009

L.A. County Grand Jury convenes to hear murder evidence.

June 2009

Gerhartsreiter is convicted of kidnapping, gets five-year prison sentence. His lawyer argues Gerhartsreiter is delusional, has other psychological problems.

March 2011

L.A. County prosecutors charge Gerhartsreiter with murder.

Jan. 26, 2012

After five days of testimony from acquaintances, San Marino residents, forensic experts, Gerhartsreiter is ordered to face trial for the murder of John Sohus. Trial may take place later this year.

Sources: Los Angeles Times and Pasadena Sun

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