A Metropolitan Police officer accused of the kidnap and murder of Sarah Everard has been remanded in custody.
Wayne Couzens, 48, appeared before Westminster Magistrates’ Court following his arrest on Tuesday.
He wore a grey tracksuit and stood as the charges were read.
The case will next be heard at the Old Bailey on 16 March.
Couzens, a 48-year-old married father of two, was arrested at his home in Deal, Kent.
Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Nick Ephgrave said:
“I would like at this stage to pay tribute to Sarah’s family for their fortitude and forbearance through what can only have been the most intensely difficult few days.
“Our thoughts remain with them as this matter progresses.
“The investigation continues of course supported by hundreds of officers from across the Met as well as colleagues in Kent Police.
“I would also like to thank at this stage all members of the public who have come forward with information or support for the investigation and would use this opportunity to encourage anyone who thinks they might have useful information to give to get in contact with us.”
Rosemary Ainslie, Head of Special Crime at the CPS, said:
“Following a referral of evidence by the Metropolitan Police related to the death of Sarah Everard, the CPS has authorised the police to charge Wayne Couzens with murder and kidnapping.
“He will appear at Westminster magistrates’ court tomorrow (13 March) for his first hearing.”
Ms Everard, 33, a marketing executive, was last seen on March 3rd after leaving a friend’s flat in Clapham, South London, to walk to her home in Brixton.
Somewhere along the 50 minutes’ walk she disappeared.
On Friday, a body found hidden in woodland in Kent was identified as that of 33-year-old marketing executive.
