SALT LAKE CITY?A handyman who worked at the home of 14-year-old Elizabeth Smart has been arrested for an alleged parole violation and is at the top of the list of potential suspects in her disappearance, police said earlier this week.

Richard Albert Ricci, who has a 29-ayear criminal record, was questioned by police the day after the girl’s apparent abduction and was among those re-interviewed because he did painting and yard work at the home.

Ricci’s alibi “became more suspicious” when he was questioned again, said Salt Lake City Police Chief Rick Dinse. The chief wouldn’t elaborate.

Ricci has denied involvement in the girl’s disappearance.