Court update for Southsea man accused of murdering Samantha Murphy
The case of a Southsea man accused of murdering “kind” Samantha Murphy was heard in court today.
Charlie Jeans, 30, of Margate Road, is accused of murdering mum-of-three Samantha. The 32-year-old’s body was found at a property on Wadham Road, North End, at 7.37am on Thursday June 5 sparking a police manhunt which led to four people being arrested.
A trial date was previously set for November 10 by judge Michael Bowes KC but was moved back to June 8. During a pre-trial review today the trial date was kept the same but another pre-trial hearing in January could now take place.
Jeans, who has not yet entered a plea, remains remanded in custody. A psychiatric report on Jeans was previously made, resulting in a court adjournment as the defence considered the findings.
Two other men arrested on suspicion of murder, a 32-year-old man from Petersfield and a 32-year-old man from Havant, were previously released and will face no further action.
A 41-year-old man from Portsmouth who was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender was released without charge and will face no further action.
Samantha’s family previously released a tribute describing her as a “bright” and “compassionate” soul. The tribute read: “Sammie-Jo, our bright, smiling soul, radiated joy to everyone she met.
“Sam was the friend everyone went to for advice and a compassionate ear. Our gracious host at Halloween and Christmas, Sam’s home was always filled with warmth and cheer.