Louise Smith: Woman to face no action after being arrested on suspicion of murdering 16-year-old

Louise, 16, was reported missing on Friday, May 8, before her body was found in Havant Thicket on Thursday, May 21.

Police have said that a 29-year-old woman, who was arrested on suspicion of murder and assisting an offender, will now face no further action.

Officers have charged Shane Lee Mays, 29, from Somborne Drive in Havant, on suspicion of murder.

His trial is due to start at Winchester Crown Court on November 16.

Det Chief Supt Scott MacKechnie said: ‘We understand these sorts of updates can come as a shock to the local community, but please be reassured that we are continuing to investigate this case thoroughly, and this will form part of the ongoing court process in relation to the suspect we have charged.

‘It is important we keep you updated with these developments, and we thank the community for their ongoing support and understanding.

‘We also once again ask that you don’t speculate on the circumstances surrounding Louise’s death as this can have an impact on proceedings later down the line when evidence is presented to a jury.’