Man denies murder after Brentwood assault

Essex Police officers discovered the victim after being called to reports of an attack in Ingrave Road, Brentwood

A man has denied the murder of a 63-year-old who was found dead after reports of a serious assault at a house.

The body of Francis Reilly, know as Frankie, was discovered by police officers at an address in Ingrave Road, near Brentwood High Street, on 12 September.

John Moore was charged with his murder. At Basildon Crown Court on Tuesday, the 38-year-old’s defence barrister pleaded not guilty on his behalf.

A trial expected to last two weeks was set for 10 March.

A murder investigation was launched by Essex Police following the death of a man in Brentwood

An investigation was launched by the Essex Police Serious Crime Directorate and Mr Moore was arrested and charged with murder.

He was remanded into custody and was due to appear at Basildon Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing.

However, the prison in which he is being held was unable to locate him.

His defence barrister, Craig Rush, told the court the defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge of murder.