Brent M. Hooghkirk pleaded not guilty Tuesday to charges of killing Lisa M. Garretson in 1988.

Hooghkirk, 18, was accompanied by his lawyer William Brady as Judge Richard D. Larson ordered a discovery meeting for Feb. 20, where the prosecution and the defense will share information about the case.

If guilty, Hooghkirk could spend the rest of his life in prison. He is being charged with three counts of first degree murder, aggravated sexual assault, aggravated arson and concealing a homicide.

Brady said he does not know how he will defend Hooghkirk because he does not yet have all of the information needed to make that decision.

Garretson’s charred body was found Sept. 21, 1988 at her 1010 State St. apartment after Hooghkirk allegedly raped and strangled her, pouring gas on her body to hide the crime.

Cocaine and marijuana were found at Garretson’s apartment.

Garretson worked full time at Cardinal Glass, 1651 State St. and part-time as a waitress at Kishwaukee Country Club. Garretson earned a bachelor of arts degree in elementary education from NIU in 1984.