Cop husband Darren McKie charged with murder after policewoman found dead in Cheshire lake
Sgt McKie, 43, is to appear in court tomorrow charged with his detective wife Leanne's murder
THE cop husband of police detective Leanne McKie has tonight been charged with her murder.
Sgt Darren McKie, 43, was arrested hours after her body was found in a Cheshire lake in the early hours of Friday morning.
Both worked for Greater Manchester Police and lived in Wilmslow — where neighbours described them as "a very likeable, happy family".
Leanne, 39, who worked in the Serious Sexual Crimes unit, was found at Poynton Park Lake near Macclesfield, Cheshire.
She was described by friends as a devoted mum and "the most beautiful person inside and out".
Her devastated uncle Robert, of Chester, told The Sun the family had been under strain since Leanne's 65-year-old mum Ellen Dodd was diagnosed with brain cancer last year.
A spokeswoman for Cheshire Police said tonight: "Darren McKie, from Burford Close, Wilmslow, was arrested in the early hours of Friday 29 September after the body of Leanne McKie was found in a lake at Poynton Park.
"He was subsequently charged with murder today and has been remanded in police custody to appear at South and East Cheshire Magistrates' Court tomorrow."
Earlier on Monday, police said they wanted to speak to a group of four people who walked past the lake off London Road North, Poynton, in the direction of Stockport at 12.15am on Friday.
Detectives said they were keen to hear from anyone who was in the area 11.30pm on September 28 and 3.30am the following day.
They also repeated their appeal to anyone who believes they may have seen Leanne's red Mini car, registration number DA12 DFO.
Chief Constable Ian Hopkins, of Greater Manchester Police, issued a tribute to the "popular" detective at the weekend.
"It is with great sadness that I can confirm that the body of serving GMP officer Leanne McKie was found in Poynton yesterday morning and a murder investigation has been launched by Cheshire Police", he said.
"I would like to offer my most sincere condolences to Leanne's family and friends at this devastating time.
"Leanne has served with Greater Manchester Police since 2001 and was a detective working with the serious sexual offences unit.
"Leanne worked tirelessly to provide support and seek justice for victims of sexual crimes.
"Leanne was a popular figure among her colleagues, who have been left devastated by the news of her tragic death.
"She will be sorely missed by everyone she worked with."
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