Man denies murdering 24-year-old woman
Kyle Pala, 30, was charged with the murder of Sarah-Louise Pennington in Stoke-on-Trent
A man has appeared in court to deny the murder of a 24-year-old woman.
Kyle Pala, 30, was charged with the murder of Sarah-Louise Pennington in Stoke-on-Trent by Staffordshire Police after officers were called to an address in Longton at around 3.30am on July 12.
Miss Pennington was found dead inside, the force said.
Appearing at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court on Monday, Pala, of Oakwell Court in Oakwell Grove, Longton, spoke only to confirm his name and enter his not guilty plea to a single charge of murder in front of a packed public gallery.
Prosecution counsel Michael Duck KC said the Crown was still awaiting expert medical and scientific evidence in the case.
The defendant, who wore a grey polo shirt, dark Nike jacket and blue jeans and appeared to show no emotion in the dock, was told by Judge Sally Hancox he would face a trial lasting two weeks in January.
She said: “This morning you have pleaded not guilty to the allegation of murder that you face, and you know your trial will take place in this same courtroom on January 4.
“Time will pass very quickly between now and then and it is vital you continue to assist those who represent you on this case.
“On that date, please remember you have a duty to attend court for your trial.
“You can now return to the cells.”