Two men have been arrested and charged after a decomposing body was found inside a suitcase during a children's teddy bear hunt at Borstal Recreation Grounds in Rochester, Kent. Joshua Miller, 32, and Jamie Cooper, 27, both from Wandsworth, London, have been charged with preventing a lawful burial. Miller also faces a murder charge, according to the Metropolitan Police.
Discovery During Fundraising Event
The body was discovered on Friday, July 10, while a local nursery was hosting a teddy bear scavenger hunt for children. A resident, who wished to remain anonymous, told Kent Online: “I saw the luggage before the police. I was with my niece and nephew, so I was busy keeping them from seeing it. What I saw was the suitcase covered in hundreds of flies. I actually heard the buzzing from them first. I noticed that it was a large suitcase.”
Police had been tipped off about a potential murder at a property in Wandsworth late on Thursday, July 9. Although no body was found at the home, officers believed someone had “come to harm” and launched an investigation. The following day, a search at Borstal Recreation Grounds, about 60 miles east of Wandsworth, led to the grim discovery.
Charges and Court Appearance
The two men have been remanded in custody and are scheduled to appear at Medway Magistrates’ Court on Monday, July 13. Formal identification of the victim has not yet taken place, but police believe they know the identity and have contacted next-of-kin, who are being supported by specialist officers.
Detective Inspector Ben Dalloway, leading the investigation, said: “Our thoughts remain with the victim’s family who are understandably distraught at their loss. We will continue to offer them every support. This has been a fast-moving investigation and we are working tirelessly to establish the exact circumstances of the incident.”
Community Shock
The incident has shocked the local community, as what was meant to be a joyful event for children turned into a crime scene. Miller and Cooper are believed to have been acquainted with the victim. The investigation continues as police work to piece together the events leading up to the discovery.
