A man accused of murdering care worker Leanne Park has made his first appearance at crown court. Leanne's body was discovered after police were called to a property in Darlington town centre on Wednesday night.
Court appearance and charges
Andrew Bell, of Darlington, was later charged with Leanne's murder. He appeared before a judge at Teesside Crown Court this morning, via video link from prison. Dates for a plea and trial preparation hearing and a trial were set during the brief hearing, with Mr Bell being told he will be back in court for the plea hearing on October 26.
The Recorder of Middlesbrough, Judge Francis Laird KC, said: "Andrew Bell, I will set your trial date as March 8, 2027. You will next appear before the court on October 26. On that occasion you will be required to enter a plea to the indictment. You will be remanded in custody." Mr Bell said "Thank you".
Tributes to Leanne Park
Leanne's family paid tribute to the grandmother following her death. In a statement they said: "We love her so much and miss her more than words can describe. We are completely devastated. Her death has ripped the heart out of our family."
Leanne worked at Ventress Hall Care Home, whose staff paid their own tribute on social media following her death, writing: "Leanne was always so kind and would do anything for anybody, especially our residents."
A 27-year-old man, who had been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, has been released on bail.
