Louise Smith murder accused's court hearing adjourned due to HMP Lewes norovirus outbreak

A MAN accused of murdering 16-year-old Louise Smith was due at court this morning - but an outbreak of norovirus in prison prevented his appearance.
By Steve Deeks
Published 10th Sep 2020, 12:44 BST
Updated 10th Sep 2020, 16:12 BST

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Shane Mays, 29, of Somborne Drive, Leigh Park, did not appear at Winchester Crown Court this morning as planned for a hearing.

But the case was re-listed to September 18 after Mays was not able to appear following a virus outbreak at HMP Lewes as he awaits trial.

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‘There has been an outbreak of norovirus which was discovered yesterday afternoon which is why he couldn’t be produced,’ Daniel Sawyer, for the defence, said.

Police at the scene of Havant Thicket on Tuesday, May 26, where 16-year-old Louise Smith's body was found. Picture: Sarah Standing (260520-3453)Police at the scene of Havant Thicket on Tuesday, May 26, where 16-year-old Louise Smith's body was found. Picture: Sarah Standing (260520-3453)
Police at the scene of Havant Thicket on Tuesday, May 26, where 16-year-old Louise Smith's body was found. Picture: Sarah Standing (260520-3453)
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On a previous occasion at court in July, Mays spoke only to confirm his identity and deny murdering Louise who went missing on May 8.

Her body was found 13 days later at Havant Thicket.

Mrs Justice May previously remanded Mays into custody ahead of a hearing on October 2.

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