The trial of a construction worker accused of murdering two of his former girlfriends is scheduled to begin in 2019.
Naomi Hunte, 41, and Fiona Holm, 48, are accused of being killed by 65-year-old Carl Cooper.
Both women had been in his life at various points.
Cooper was initially detained following Ms. Hunte’s death on February 14 at her Congleton Grove, Woolwich, residence.
She had a single stab wound to her chest and was discovered only partially dressed.
Cooper was arrested four days after her body was found on suspicion of her murder, and bailed pending further inquiries before being released under investigation.
Ms Holm, described as a ‘vulnerable’ person in court, was reported missing on June 29 of this year having not been seen for nine days.
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Her family became concerned after finding mouldy food in her fridge and mouldy linen in her washing machine. Her bank records showed no activity since June 20.
Police launched a murder investigation due to the out-of-character nature of her disappearance. Officers are still trying to find Ms Holm’s body and are searching in the south-east London area.
Thameside prison was unable produce Cooper in person or by video link for his first scheduled appearance at the Old Bailey today.
Judge Richard Marks KC continued the hearing in his absence, setting a plea hearing on October 3 and a four-week trial from June 4 2024 before a High Court judge.
The judge ordered arrangements should be made for the defendant to appear in court on Wednesday so he can find out what had been said about his case.
Cooper, of Broadfield Road near Hither Green, south-east London, was further remanded into custody.