Trial date set for man accused of murdering inmate

The entrance to and exterior of HMP Exeter on a grey day. On one of the stone entrance pillars is a sign reading: WELCOME TO HM PRISON EXETER and there are two signs reading: VEHICULAR ACCESS ONLY either side of the open entrance. There are cars parked next to the two-storey building which is red stone and looks historic as it has an ornate stone balustrade running around the roof line, many chimneys and pale stone features above the barred windows

James Desborough was told his trial would begin on 16 March

Lisa Young
South West

A man accused of murdering a fellow prison inmate has been told his trial will take place next year.

James Desborough, 39, from Cornwall appeared before Exeter Crown Court on Friday accused of murdering Steven Kempster, 65, who police said had been found dead in his cell in HMP Exeter on Monday.

Mr Desborough appeared at court via video link from prison and spoke only to confirm his name.

Judge James Patrick confirmed a plea and trial preparation hearing would take place on 16 October and fixed a trial to begin on 16 March.

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