BELLEROSE, Queens -- A man pleaded not guilty Tuesday to charges he forced his way into a New York City home last month, killed the elderly couple who lived there , set fire to the house and then went on a shopping spree with the victims' credit cards.

James McGriff, 42, is charged in a 50-count indictment with first-degree murder, second-degree murder, kidnapping, arson, burglary and other offenses in connection with the September 8 home invasion in Queens.

Officials allege he forced his way into the home of Frank and Maureen Olton, 76 and 77 years old, set their home on fire after torturing them , and then went on a shopping spree with their credit cards.

He faces up to life in prison if convicted.

"According to the charges, on a Monday morning in a quiet neighborhood, the defen

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