The defense has begun calling witnesses in the emotionally charged trial of Lindsay Clancy.
Authorities say Vladimir Lushevski allegedly killed 61-year-old Lola Karabaeva and hid her body in the closet of their home in the Bustleton section of the city.
Vladimir Lushevskiy, 65, now faces charges including homicide, strangulation, and tampering with evidence.
Arizona detective John Byrd has been arrested and charged in his wife's death after he allegedly strangled her and locked her body in their bedroom before fleeing the scene.
She confessed and told police she did not want her son to grow up with the family's financial problems.
"I mean, the neighbors did a really good job and possibly saved her life," said Deputy Chief Mike Packer.