A Birmingham man has denied murder nearly six years after a body was found in a canal. The defendant appeared at Birmingham Crown Court on Friday, where he entered a not guilty plea to the charge of murder.
Details of the Case
The body of 34-year-old Mark Brindley was discovered in the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal on June 15, 2017. Despite extensive police investigations, no one was charged until recently.
The accused, 28-year-old Liam Smith, of no fixed address, was arrested last month and charged with murder. He appeared via video link from HMP Birmingham, where he is currently held on remand.
Court Proceedings
During the brief hearing, Smith spoke only to confirm his name and enter his plea. Judge Simon Drew KC set a trial date for January 2024, which is expected to last up to four weeks.
Prosecutor David Jackson KC indicated that the case would rely on forensic evidence and witness testimony. He added that the Crown would argue that Smith was responsible for Brindley's death.
Background
Mark Brindley was last seen alive on June 12, 2017, three days before his body was recovered from the canal. His family described him as a loving father and son who was deeply missed.
Police have urged anyone with information to come forward, as the investigation continues.
A further hearing is scheduled for later this month.
