Brandon Rainey murder trial begins at Belfast Crown Court over Chloe Mitchell death
A jury has been sworn in for the trial of Brandon Rainey, 30, accused of murdering Chloe Mitchell in Ballymena in June 2023 and dismembering her body.
Rainey trial: jury sworn in as Belfast court hears dismemberment allegations
A jury of seven women and five men has been sworn in at Belfast Crown Court to hear the murder trial of Brandon Rainey, rte.ie reports.
Rainey, 30, formerly of James Street, Ballymena, is charged with murdering Chloe Mitchell on 3 June 2023. He is additionally accused of attempting to prevent the lawful and decent burial of a body, with prosecutors alleging he dismembered her remains and placed parts in two household bins.
Mitchell was last captured on CCTV in Ballymena town centre on the date she disappeared. A major search operation followed before her remains were recovered days later.
Judge Stephen Fowler cautioned the jury that there had been a "degree of publicity" surrounding the case and stressed it was "vitally important" that jurors avoid online or social media commentary. They were also instructed not to discuss any case details with friends or family.
The case was adjourned and is expected to open formally before the jury on Wednesday.
Source: Irish Independent