A woman accused of murdering her husband after human remains were found at their home is to undergo a psychiatric assessment before her trial.
Maureen Rickards, 50, was arrested by police investigating the disappearance of Jeremy Rickards, who had not been seen by his family for weeks.
The search for the 65-year-old came to a tragic end on July 11 after human remains were found at a terraced house in St Martin’s Road, Canterbury, where the couple lived.
His wife was later charged with murder and is currently being held on remand at HMP Bronzefield in Surrey.
Via video link, Rickards attended proceedings at Canterbury Crown Court today but her lawyer says a psychiatric evaluation must be completed before any plea is entered.
Danny Moore, defending, said: “It is clear from speaking to this defendant that there are issues relating to fitness to plea that have to be addressed before arraignment. A psychiatric report is being prepared.”
It was confirmed at today’s hearing that the murder trial will be dealt with by a High Court judge, with a start date fixed for February 10.
Rickards wore a dark grey jumper and spoke only to confirm her name and date of birth.
Jeremy Rickards had been reported missing on Friday, July 5, with his family telling police they had not seen him since the start of June.
His wife is alleged to have murdered him between June 7 and July 11 – the day the remains were discovered at their home.
There was a large presence of police and forensics officers in St Martins in the days following the discovery.
One neighbour, 21-year-old university student Katie Dolbear told KentOnline at the time: “It was a complete shock. We didn’t know what was going on. We just saw loads of vans pull up.
“It was quite worrying. We were a bit scared and concerned about what was going on. We double-locked the doors.
“It’s not something you expect to have on this road, especially. There’s lots of families on this road and students.”
Another student who lives in St Martin’s Road, 21-year-old Matthew Carney, said: “It’s a pretty shocking piece of news to hear.
“I wouldn’t have thought it would have been happening a few doors down from your doorstep.”
