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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Caroline Mortimer

Kayleigh Haywood: Stephen Beadman pleads guilty to rape and murder of Leicestershire schoolgirl

A man has pleaded guilty to the rape and murder of Leicestershire schoolgirl, Kayleigh Haywood. 

Appearing via video link at Leicestershire Crown Court, Stephen Beadman, 28, admitted one count of rape and one of murder.

Kayleigh disappeared after being dropped off outside Ibstock Community College on Friday November 13.

Police discovered her body near Sence Valley Forest Park on the evening of Wednesday November 18 after officers were drafted in from across the region to help with the search.

His neighbour Luke Harlow, 27, appeared at the same hearing via video-link and pleaded guilty to one count of sexual grooming and two counts of sexual activity with Kayleigh.

Both men denied one charge of false imprisonment of Kayleigh and will stand trial at Nottingham Crown Court on June 8.

Additional reporting by PA

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