Accused killer of four children in court

An alleged killer charged with the murders of a mother and three children has appeared at the Old Bailey.

Damien Bendall, 32, allegedly murdered 11-year-old Lacey Bennett, her brother John Paul Bennett, 13, their mother Terri Harris, 35, and Lacey’s friend Connie Gent, 11, who was at the family’s home for a sleepover.

The four bodies were discovered at a house in Chandos Crescent, Killamarsh, near Sheffield, South Yorkshire, on September 19 last year.

Following the killings Jason Bennett had posted a tribute to his son and daughter, John and Lacey, online and went to the site of the tragedy to lay flowers.

Bendall, of Chandos Crescent, Killamarsh, is also charged with the rape of Lacey.

He appeared in court via video-link from HMP Wakefield wearing a grey prison tracksuit speaking only to confirm his name during the brief administrative hearing.

Mr Justice Sweeney remanded Bendall in custody ahead of his trial which is currently fixed for October 4 at Derby Crown Court.