Essex Woman charged with murder of elderly couple to face trial next May
35-year-old Virginia McCullough is is accused of murdering John McCullough and Lois McCullough
35-year-old Virginia McCullough, of Pump Hill, Chelmsford, has today appeared in court, charged with the murders of John and Lois McCullough.
It's understood the pair are the defendant's parents.
She was not asked to enter pleas to the two murder charges during a brief court hearing on Tuesday.
The defendant, who wore a grey prison-issue tracksuit and had a blonde bob haircut, spoke only to confirm her identity from a booth at HMP Peterborough.
Judge Samantha Leigh remanded her into custody until a plea hearing on December 1, with a provisional trial date set from May 13 next year at Chelmsford Crown Court with a time estimate of two weeks.
No application for bail was made.
Yesterday (September 18) Essex Police confirmed they had found the remains of two people, in connection with the investigation into the deaths of a man and a woman in Chelmsford.
Whilst formal identification is yet to have taken place, Essex Police believe they're the bodies of John McCullough, and Lois McCullough, both aged in their 70s.
Essex Police say work is ongoing in the investigation, and that "extensive work" led to the discovery of the bodies, from an address in Pump Hill.
It follows concerns reported to the force on Wednesday 13 September regarding concerns to the couples welfare.
A statement on Essex Police's website, from the family of John and Lois said:
"We are deeply shocked by their deaths and ask for privacy at this difficult time.”
Detective Superintendent Rob Kirby, of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate, said:
“This continues to be an incredibly complex investigation.
“Our work will continue throughout the coming days, as our specialist officers and staff continue to piece together all elements of this matter.
“Officers will carry out work at addresses in and around Pump Hill throughout the coming days.
“I would continue to urge against speculation as these enquiries continue.
“A family is grieving the loss of two relatives and officers are supporting them.”
Essex Police say officers will remain in the area for some time.