Man denies murder charge after woman shot dead

Joanne Penney died after being shot at a block of flats in Talbot Green on 9 March

A 38-year-old man has pleaded not guilty to charges relating to the death of a woman who was shot dead at a block of flats in south Wales

Joanne Penney, 40, died after being shot in Llys Illtyd, Talbot Green, Rhondda Cynon Taf on 9 March.

Renaldo Baptiste appeared via videolink at Newport Crown Court on Friday and pleaded not guilty to murder and participating in the activities of an organised crime.

It brings the total number of people charged in relation to the case to 12.

There will be a hearing next week to consider if his trial should be joined to others charged in connection with Joanne Penney's death.

A trial for nine defendants is listed for 20 October, with a separate trial for two other defendants charged with assisting an offender listed for 30 November 2026.

An inquest opening in March heard Ms Penney died after being shot in the chest, with injuries to her heart and lung.

In a tribute, Ms Penney's family said they were devastated by the loss, adding: "Her kindness, strength and love for her family will never be forgotten."