A MURDER case was today (Monday) put on hold on the day it was due to start – because there was not enough time to hear it.
Jack Wall, 22, had been set to stand trial charged with killing his former girlfriend, 19-year-old Amelia Arnold, who he lived with at their home in Hadrians Walk, Stevenage.
Her body was found buried in woodland in Travellers Lane, Hatfield, on November 11, but it is thought she died on or around November 8.
After lengthy legal discussions at Luton Crown Court this morning, the case was adjourned until July 1.
The trial had been listed to last six days, but the court heard it would take much longer to conclude.
Jane Bickerstaff QC, prosecuting, said: “This matter is in the court list for trial, but what’s now clear as the issues in the case are crystalised is that this is a two-week case, easily, rather than the six or seven days that was anticipated.”
Ruling there was “not enough time” to hear the case, Ms Bickerstaff said a fresh date for a two-week trial had been found in July.
Judge Richard Foster agreed, stating: “It’s quite clear in the time allowed for this case that it just wasn’t possible.”
Mr Wall denies murder, but has previously admitted burying Miss Arnold’s body.
Dressed in a navy sweatshirt and dark trousers, Wall spoke only to confirm his name.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here