Trial date set for man charged with the murder of a much ‘loved’ dad who was found dead in a Middlesbrough home.
Maurice Bennett was found dead after an incident in Oakrise in Ormesby, Middlesbrough on Friday, April 7.
Cleveland Police launched a murder investigation and arrested another man, 37-year-old David Thompson-Love at the scene.
Today, the defendant refused to appear at Teesside Crown Court charged with the murder of Mr Bennett, known as Mozza by friends and family.
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Thompson-Love, of Oakrise, Ormesby, Middlesbrough, was not asked to enter a plea during the short hearing.
The Recorder of Middlesbrough Judge Paul Watson KC remanded the defendant in custody ahead of his trial on October 2.
Thompson-Love is expected to appear before a judge on May 17 for a preliminary hearing.
The 54-year-old victim’s family issued a touching statement through Cleveland Police saying: “The tragic and sudden loss of Mozza has devastated our close family beyond measure.
“He was so loved and will be missed by so many.”
Previously, a Police spokesperson said: “Our thoughts remain with his family at this very difficult time.
“If anyone has any information that may assist police in their enquiries, we ask that they please come forward.
“Information can be passed to Cleveland Police on the 101 number, quoting ref 065539.”
Police are specifically appealing for anyone who saw Maurice between Thursday April 6 and 6.30pm on Friday April 7 to come forward if they have not already spoken to officers.
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