The family of a 36-year-old woman found dead in a canal in West Bromwich have paid tribute to her, describing her as a 'bright, beautiful, loving soul'. Chereiss Bailey's body was discovered in water near Ryders Green Road on Tuesday morning, prompting a murder investigation by West Midlands Police.
In a statement released three days after the discovery, her family expressed their grief, saying: 'Words could never truly describe the anger, pain and heartbreak that we are feeling as a family. She will forever remain in our hearts.' They added that she was 'much-loved and adored by us all'.
Two individuals have been charged in connection with the incident. John Anslow, 64, appeared at Worcester Magistrates' Court on Thursday charged with murder and preventing the lawful and decent burial of a body. Hayley-Marie Ferguson, 41, was charged with preventing the lawful and decent burial of a dead body and assisting an offender. Both are due to appear at Wolverhampton Crown Court for a further hearing on Friday.
Police established a large cordon and a forensic tent at the scene, with door-to-door enquiries and CCTV retrieval underway. A post-mortem examination is being conducted to determine the cause of death. Anyone with information is urged to contact West Midlands Police on 101 quoting log 1587 of 7 October, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
