New York, January 21 : Jennifer Hudson''s former brother-in-law, the main suspect behind the murders of the actress' family members, has pleaded "not guilty" to the charges.

William Balfour had been arrested on charges of first-degree killings of the Oscar-winner's mother, brother and his 7-year-old stepson on December 1.

A murder indictment had been issued against the 27-year-old, with his lawyer later making a request that his client be shifted from a state prison to Cook County for easier communication.

The judge had said that he would rule on the matter during a January 20 court date, but the request has been reset for another hearing next week, reports the New York Daily News.

Balfour, who is also facing home invasion charges, had allegedly gone on a killing spree after confronting his estranged wife over her renewed love life. (ANI)