Man denies murdering woman who was found dead at West Midlands house
Benjamin William Day, is accused of the murder of 24-year-old Maria Saceanu in December last year
A 20-year-old man from Worcestershire has pleaded not guilty to murdering a young woman who was declared dead after police were called to a property in the West Midlands.
Benjamin William Day, is charged with murdering 24-year-old Maria Saceanu on a day between December 19 and 22 last year.
Day appeared before the Recorder of Wolverhampton, Judge Michael Chambers KC, via a prison videolink to the city's Crown Court on Wednesday.
Wearing a navy blue training top, Day, who is in custody at HMP Manchester, spoke only to identify himself to the court and to enter a not guilty plea to murder.
West Midlands Police announced that they had charged Day, of Yeadon Close, Webheath, Redditch, on Christmas Eve, three days after officers were called to an address in Barncroft Road, Oldbury, at around 2.30am on December 21.
Officers said the alleged victim was found unresponsive and was confirmed dead at the scene.
The short hearing heard submissions from prosecutor Rachel Brand KC and defence counsel Mohammed Naser.
Adjourning the case, Judge Chambers told Day he has the right to give evidence at his trial.
The judge said: "Your case is being adjourned for trial on a date that will be fixed as soon as possible. In the meantime you must remain in custody."