Murder case girl's anguish (From The Bolton News)

Murder case girl's anguish

A GIRL of 16 accused of murder had to be supported in the dock at Bolton Magistrates Court as she shook uncontrollably.

The girl, who cannot be named, was charged with the murder of 35-year-old Joanne Whitelegg, of Westwood Close, Farnworth, on February 14.

Joanne Whitelegg died from multiple stab wounds after an incident at her home.

An application to keep the girl handcuffed in the dock was refused by magistrates.

They also refused a request to have her seated in the body of the court. She remained in the dock with her social worker, and two Group 4 security guards.

The girl, wearing a blue and yellow sweatshirt, was trembling so violently during the 10 minute hearing that she had to be supported by her social worker and a woman Group 4 security officer.

She spoke only three times to answer yes to her name, age and address. The murder charge was formally put to her but no plea was taken.

The court was told that the only secure accommodation available was in the London area. Magistrates remanded her in custody to the secure accommodation until February 23 when she will appear at the Bolton Youth Court.

The girl had to almost carried from the dock because of the emotional state she was in.

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