Professor Denies Killing Youth

Max Bernard Franc, a Cal State Fresno professor accused of robbing and shooting a young man in the head, then dismembering his body with a chain saw, pleaded innocent in Los Angeles today. Franc, 57, could face a death sentence if convicted on the charges, one count each of murder and robbery.

Municipal Judge Michael Harwin ordered Franc to remain in custody without bail and to return to court Oct. 16 to schedule a preliminary hearing. The victim in the case was identified as Tracy L. Nute, 18, of Kansas City, Mo. The youth’s head and torso were found on a rural road about 20 miles north of Fresno, while his arms and lower legs were found near a freeway in Valencia.