PROSECUTORS refused to disclose the bail address of a woman charged with stealing from the grave of a 21-year-old murder victim over fears her "life or wellbeing" could be at risk.
Kylie Eales appeared before magistrates yesterday charged with taking sentimental items over a two-month period from the grave of Connor Upton, who was stabbed to death in 2010.
Eales, 25, did not enter a plea to the charge and is due to stand trial in November. Although she has not been convicted of the offence, solicitors were concerned for her safety after a series of threats were made on social media websites. Magistrates in Burton were handed transcripts of Facebook conversations which are believed to have contained messages encouraging reprisals against Eales, of Burton.
The offences were alleged to have happened at a burial plot in Stapenhill Cemetery, where Mr Upton is buried.
Eales, flanked by two security officers in the dock, spoke only to confirm her name and address during the hearing.
The Crown Prosecution Service did not contest an application for bail but raised concerns for Eales' safety should the address of where she will be staying until her next hearing be made public.
Emma Thompson, prosecuting, told magistrates: "We have fears for her safety and her protection. Her life or certainly her wellbeing… it jeopardises her safety.
"We do not want to state the address in open court. We feel it is absolutely vital for her safety that the address should not be made public."
Michael Taylor, defending Eales, said: "I would hope that those aggrieved by this offence – the removal of items – will reflect that the law should be able to take its course and due process should be able to take place. My client will be dealt with by a crown court judge eventually."
Magistrates agreed to grant Eales bail, which includes a restriction of not going within 200 yards of Stapenhill Cemetery. She is due to appear at Stafford Crown Court for a plea and case management hearing on November 24.
