Boy, 17, charged in St Leonards murder investigation

A 17-year-old boy has this afternoon (Friday 13 January) been charged with the murder of a woman in St Leonards.

The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared before Brighton Magistrates’ Court earlier today and has been remanded in custody to appear before Lewes Crown Court on Monday (16 January).

Officers responded to a report of concern for a person at a property in Hollington Old Lane, St Leonards, at about 6.08pm on Wednesday, 11 January.

A local woman aged in her 50s was sadly pronounced deceased at the scene.

The 17-year-old boy was arrested at the scene and has subsequently now been charged with one count of murder.

The boy and the woman were known to each other, and officers are not seeking anyone else in connection with the incident.

Detective Inspector Alex Campbell, from the Major Crime team, said: “This is a fast-moving investigation with a charge secured within 48 hours of us being called to the address.

“Our enquiries are still ongoing. A cordon is in place and police will remain at the scene for the coming days.

“This a tragic case and our thoughts are with the victim’s family. And we ask, on their behalf, that their privacy is respected at what will be an extremely difficult time for them.”