Bobbi-Anne McLeod: Police confirm body found is missing teen girl, 18, as man charged with murder
A BODY found in the search for Bobbi-Anne McLeod is that of the missing teen, police have confirmed - as a man appears in court charged with her murder.
Bobbi-Anne, 18, was last seen at a bus stop near her home in Plymouth on November 20.
She had been on her way to see her boyfriend when she vanished.
Her body was found eight miles away near Bovisand beach, Devon.
Officials from Devon and Cornwall Police said today: "Formal identification has now been completed and it has been confirmed that the body located in Bovisand on November 23 is that of 18-year-old Bobbi-Anne McLeod.
"Her family have been informed of this update.
"They have asked for their privacy to be respected at this time."
Musician Cody Ackland, 24, who was not known to the teen, has been charged with murder.
TRAGIC NEWS
He appeared at Truro Crown Court yesterday and was remanded into custody ahead of a hearing in January.
Ackland, who wore a green and yellow jumpsuit, spoke only to confirm his name during his first crown court appearance.
The defendant is a lead guitarist in Plymouth with indie rock group Rakuda, who regularly toured the city.
He is also the main songwriter and performed with his bandmates on BBC South West radio.
Others in the group previously announced they will be disbanding as a mark of respect to Bobbi-Anne.
They said: "The remaining members of Rakuda; Josh, Ross, Josh and Mike are all extremely shocked and in complete disbelief by the tragic event that has unfolded over the last several days.
MUSICIAN CHARGED
"Our thoughts and prayers are with Bobbi-Anne McLeod’s family and friends who must be devastated at their loss.
"As a mark of respect, we have decided that we shall not be going forward as a band and will be disbanding with immediate effect.
"We will not be making any further comments at this time."
Forensic officers were seen combing a home for clues just four miles from where the teenager disappeared.
Officers also said a "significant" number of searches have been carried out across the city in relation to the investigation.
Assistant Chief Constable Nikki Leaper said: "I would like to reassure the public that at this time we are not seeking anyone else in relation to this matter."
The teenager was on her way to meet boyfriend when she disappeared. He raised the alarm when she failed to arrive.