Captured Suspects To Face Charges In Connection With Killing Of James And Michelle Butler

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (CBS) – Texas authorities spoke for the first time Thursday since a man and woman were captured in connection with the killing of New Hampshire couple James and Michelle Butler. Adam Curtis Williams, wanted for felony theft, is back in the United States and Amanda Noverr is awaiting deportation in Mexico after several days on the run.

"Mr. Williams is now in our custody," Kleberg County Sheriff Richard Kirkpatrick said at a press conference.

Authorities said Williams and his girlfriend Noverr were seen driving the Butler's RV across the border into Mexico after the Rumney, New Hampshire couple disappeared. Their bodies were later found buried on a beach in Corpus Christi.

"There's a sense of relief that he's caught and in custody," said Deborah Van Loon, James Butler's sister.

Noverr has a child that was with her when they were caught in Mexico. They were expected to be brought back into the country Thursday afternoon.

Both Williams and Noverr are facing charges of felony theft. Bond for Williams is set at $1 million.

Documents obtained by WBZ-TV show Williams has an extensive criminal history. He served more than 8 years in Utah prison after being convicted on charges involving possession of multiple illegal firearm and distributing marijuana. He was released from prison last December.

Following an alleged rape in Utah back in April, there was a warrant issued for Williams' arrest. And in August, police were called to a home because Williams was allegedly drunk and beating up his girlfriend. He was later charged with assault on a police officer.

"He's a bad man," Van Loon said. "It's good to get him off the street. He's a horrid person."

Authorities aren't saying how the Butlers were killed, but they're still looking for help from anyone who may have seen the suspects in Texas.

"If you know something, please come forward," District Attorney John Hubert said.

The Butlers were traveling cross country when they were killed. They leave behind five kids and one grandchild. At their New Hampshire home, yellow ribbons line the stairs and the flag sits at half-staff to honor James, a Navy veteran.

"They were such good people," Van Loon said.