A Merrick man accused of murdering his wife has been ordered to remain in jail by a judge.

John Gerges, 60, has been charged with second-degree murder after police discovered his 58-year old wife, Marvat, dead in their home on Lindgren Street Saturday night.

Police say the couple had an argument early Saturday morning over repairs in the kitchen

According to police, the couple was arguing when their 32-year old son left for work. Police say he discovered his mother's body when he returned home around 2:20 p.m. The assistant district attorney told the judge Marvat was suffocated.

Walking out of the police station, Gerges claimed he was innocent, and he is a victim of abuse for many years. Police disagreed with that assessment.

"We interviewed him and there's no indication of that and I don't know why he would say that," says Nassau Police Detective Lt. Stephen Fitzpatrick.

The couple had been married for 37 years, and John was caring for his wife who was suffering from a medical condition, police say.

A judge denied Gerges bail and ordered him to remain behind bars until his next court appearance.

Police: Woman killed at home in Merrick