Murder Trial Set for Man Accused of Killing Teen Cousin
Mental Health Checks Ordered for Accused
Shane Lee Mays, 29, has been ordered to undergo further mental health assessments after pleading not guilty to the murder of 16-year-old Louise Smith. The trial is set to begin at Winchester Crown Court on November 16 and is expected to last four weeks.
Next Court Date and Charges
Mays was back in court on October 22 to confirm his plea. Asked whether he pleaded guilty or not guilty to the charge of murdering Louise Smith on May 8, 2020, he answered “Not guilty.” A provisional trial date was initially set for November 10 but may be subject to change.
Case Details and Co-Defendant Update
James Newton-Price QC, prosecuting, told the court the case revolves around the murder of Louise, whose body was found in woodland in Havant Thicket. A decision about charging a possible co-defendant is expected by July 25, although the charge may not relate to the same offence.
Remand and Other Arrests
- Mays, who lives on Somborne Drive, Havant, remains remanded in custody.
- A 29-year-old woman arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been released on bail.
- Both suspects were previously arrested on suspicion of kidnapping on May 14 and later bailed.
Timeline of Events
- Louise Smith was last seen around midday on May 8 in Somborne Drive, Havant.
- Her body was discovered on May 21 in Havant Thicket woodland.
