A police van has been stationed outside a property in Hall Street, Dudley, for more than a week, with the presence of West Midlands Police believed to be linked to the disappearance of mum-of-seven Patricia Lashley.
The van, which has been there 'every day for over a week' according to one social media user, was still in place on Monday, August 24. Patricia, who used the names Pat, Jade, Vanessa, Tricia, and the surname Bradford, was last seen near her Hall Street home in September 1998.
Background to the case
After moving to Dudley in the mid-1990s, Patricia frequently visited the No Limits club and other pubs in the area. Police previously said she was also 'fairly well known in Oldbury' and had links to London, Newcastle, Scotland and Wales.
In July this year, Trevor Dunkley was charged with her murder. Dunkley appeared at Wolverhampton Crown Court via video link from HMP Birmingham on July 13.
Court appearance and next steps
Wearing a dark grey jumper and light grey tracksuit bottoms, the 66-year-old sat with his arms crossed behind a table. During the hearing, Dunkley spoke only to confirm his name and that he could hear Judge Michael Chambers KC.
The judge told Dunkley: "Your case is being adjourned to a plea and trial preparation hearing in which you will be asked if you plead guilty or not guilty." He added: "You have an absolute right to a trial. In the meantime, you must remain in custody."
The defendant was due to return to court on September 11. BirminghamLive has contacted the force for comment.
