Trevor Dunkley, 66, has been charged with the murder of Patricia Lashley, a mother-of-seven who disappeared from her flat in Dudley, West Midlands, more than 25 years ago. Lashley, also known locally as Pat or Jade, was last seen near her home on Hall Street in September 1998. Dunkley has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Monday, July 13.
Police Confirm Charges and Seek Public Help
West Midlands Police confirmed the charge in a statement, saying: "We have charged a man with the murder of Patricia Lashley, who was last seen in Dudley in 1998. Trevor Dunkley, 66, has been charged in connection with the death of Ms Lashley." Police are appealing for anyone who knew Lashley at the time to come forward, particularly those who may have spoken to her or Dunkley. Detective Inspector Michelle Cordell said: "We want to hear from anyone who may have known or remembers meeting Patricia, or Trevor Dunkley. We know she was fairly well known in both Dudley town centre and Oldbury."
Patricia Lashley's Background and Links
Patricia Lashley was 33 when she vanished. She was a mother of seven and had connections to London, Newcastle, Wales, and Scotland. She also used the names Jade, Vanessa, and Tricia, as well as the surname Bradford. She moved to Dudley in the mid-1990s and frequented the No Limits club and other pubs in the area. Police believe she and Dunkley knew each other.
Fresh Appeal on Her 60th Birthday
Twelve months ago, officers issued a fresh appeal for information to mark what would have been Patricia's 60th birthday. Detective Inspector Cordell added: "If anyone remembers anything or thinks they have any information which could help with our enquiries, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Even if you already spoke to us at the time Patricia went missing, we still want to hear from you as we gather as much information as we can to help her family find some closure after nearly 30 years." Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101, quoting log 3984 of July 7.
