03/08/2005

Jodi Jones murder – boyfriend launches appeal

The teenager convicted of the murder of schoolgirl Jodi Jones is to appeal against his conviction.

Luke Mitchell, 17, was found guilty of the murder of his 14-year-old girlfriend six months ago and was sentenced to 20 years in prison. He denied murdering Jodi.

The decision to launch the appeal was confirmed by Mitchell’s solicitor Nigel Beaumont, who said: “It was always intimated that our client was going to appeal and we lodged that appeal against conviction and sentence on the grounds that it was unfair.”

Mr Beaumont did not give any details regarding the grounds for appeal, but said that they hoped to apply for bail at some stage during the process.

A private sitting of judges will consider the case, which was submitted by his senior counsel, Donald Findlay QC.

The body of Jodi Jones was found in woodland near her home in Dalkeith in June 2003. She had been stripped and tied up before being stabbed to death.

(KMcA/GB)

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28 July 2003
Police review Jodi Jones murder probe
An independent team will today begin a review of police investigation into the murder of Scottish teenager Jodi Jones. Fourteen-year-old Jodi's body was found on June 30 in a wooded area near Dalkeith. She had been killed in a "frenzied and vicious attack".
02 February 2011
Jodi Jones Killer's Sentence Appeal Refused
An appeal to reduce the minimum term of a life sentence of convicted murderer Luke Mitchell has been refused. In 2003 the 22-year-old was given a minimum jail term of 20 years after he was found guilty of murdering his girlfriend Jodi Jones.
14 April 2004
Teenager charged over Jodi Jones murder
A 15-year-old youth has been arrested and charged in connection with the murder of Jodi Jones in Dalkeith last June. The teenager was arrested this morning by officers from the Lothian and Borders constabulary. The accused is expected to appear before Edinburgh Sheriff Court tomorrow.
08 July 2004
Teenage boy indicted over Jodi Jones murder
A 15-year-old youth has been indicted in connection with the murder of Dalkeith schoolgirl Jodi Jones. The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service said that the case will call at Edinburgh High Court on August 6, it has been reported today. The youth cannot be named for legal reasons.
15 April 2004
Teen in court over Jodi Jones murder
A 15-year-old youth has appeared in court today charged with the murder of Dalkeith schoolgirl Jodi Jones. The teenager appeared before Edinburgh Sheriff Court this morning charged with murder and an offence under the Misuse of Drugs Act. The youth, who cannot be named for legal reasons, made no plea and was remanded to secure accommodation.