Defendant Brian J. Karris was arraigned on Monday in Seneca County Court on a sealed indictment charging him with one count of murder in the second degree for the death of his cell mate back in December. The indictment alleges that on December 14th, Karris intentionally caused the death of Thomas Blancke by blunt force injuries to his head and neck and manual strangulation. Karris and the victim were both inmates at Five Points Correctional Facility, which is located in the Town Romulus, Seneca County. Seneca County District Attorney Barry Porsch, who is prosecuting the case, announced that the People were ready for trial. The case was adjourned for defense motions and a court conference.