Authorities in Forest Hill, London have charged a man with the murder of his wife after her body was discovered in the attic of their home. Tia Simmonds, 32, was found covered in clothing and bedding at the property on January 3.
Shane Simmonds, the husband of the victim, has also been charged with two counts of rape against a teenage girl. He appeared in court last week and has been remanded in custody until further proceedings.
During the court hearing at the Old Bailey, prosecutor Julia Faure Walker described how police found Tia Simmonds’ body in the attic, with a knife also recovered from the scene. Shane Simmonds was arrested after voluntarily visiting a police station on the day of the discovery.
The defendant, appearing via prison videolink, confirmed his name and age, and has been ordered to appear in court again on March 25. A provisional trial date has been set for October 14.
The disturbing details of this case have shocked the local community and raised concerns about domestic violence. This tragedy serves as a reminder of the ongoing issue of intimate partner violence, and the impact it has on families and communities. The judicial process will hopefully provide justice for the victim and closure for her loved ones.