New York: Father Charged with Murder of 9-Year-Old Daughter

A Canadian businessman is accused of murdering his 9-year-old Greek-Canadian daughter, Melina Galani Fratolin, during a trip to New York. 45-year-old Luciano Fratolin faces charges of second-degree murder and unlawful disposal of a corpse.

Fratolin initially told police that his daughter had been kidnapped, a claim that was disproven by the investigation. Melina's lifeless body was found near Lake George, hidden under a log.

Fratolin and his ex-wife of Greek descent lived in Quebec. Melina resided with her mother and was visiting her father for a vacation. She was last seen alive at a restaurant in Saratoga Springs.

Fratolin, founder of Gambella Coffee, is being held in Essex County Jail. He pleaded not guilty and claimed financial inability to hire a lawyer.