A man and a woman have been charged with murder after “partial human remains” were found off a seaside path.
The Dorset Police Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT) said it was called the Manor Steps Zig Zag off Boscombe Overcliff Drive at 1.10pm on Saturday, August 26. A passer-by had reportedly found the body parts.
Police have since identified the deceased as 49-year-old Simon Shotton from Bournemouth, Dorset. Officers earlier revealed two people had been arrested in connection with the incident.
Now, 38-year-old Debbie Ann Pereira and 48-year-old Benjamin Lee Atkins – both from Bournemouth – have been charged with murder. They are set to appear at Poole Magistrates Court on Tuesday, September 5.
Detective Inspector Neil Third, of MCIT, said: “Our thoughts remain with the family of Simon Shotton and they have been updated with this latest development in our investigation.
“This matter has been the subject of a meticulous and complex investigation and we have now reached the point where charges of murder have been authorised following consultation with the CPS.
“As this case will now be the subject of active court proceedings, it would not be appropriate for us to comment any further at this time as we must ensure the justice system is allowed to follow its course.
“It is also important to stress that there should be no further commentary or sharing of information online or on social media that could potentially prejudice these court proceedings.”
