A teenager accused of murdering a woman refuses to appear for a Crown Court hearing

A teenager accused of murdering a woman refused to appear for his first hearing at the Crown Court.

Deng Chol Majek, 18, accused of murdering 27-year-old Rhiannon Skye Whyte, was due to appear at Wolverhampton Crown Court via video link from HMP Manchester on Thursday to enter the plea, but refused to appear.

Mrs Whyte died in hospital on October 23, three days after suffering injuries at Bescot Stadium station in Walsall, West Midlands.

Chol Majek, of Bescot Crescent, Walsall, was initially charged with attempted murder and possession of an offensive weapon, but the first charge was upgraded to murder when Mrs Whyte died surrounded by her family.

Defending Chola Majek, from South Sudan, Charlie Crinion said the teenager refused to speak to him through an interpreter before the hearing because he did not know who he was.

Judge Michael Chambers KC said he would continue the case as if the defendant was contesting the allegations.

Prosecutor Michelle Heeley KC said the trial, which could take place in April 2025, would last between five and seven days.

Addressing Mr Crinion, Judge Chambers said: “It is important that a proper conference takes place and that, like any defendant, he has full confidence in his representation.

– I am not able to give a court date for this morning.

Another hearing was scheduled for December 13.

In a statement released through the police after her death, Mrs Whyte’s family said: ‘A most loved daughter, compassionate sister, loving aunt, gracious granddaughter, beautiful niece, wonderful cousin and devoted friend.

“You were the most selfless person, brave, quirky, funny and always available to anyone who needed it. There isn’t enough paper in the world to even start writing a tribute to you, but no one deserves it more.

“The strange thing about this devastating loss is that we now have to live without you, but how? If your short life can teach you anything, it’s to treasure every moment with those you love, because tomorrow is never guaranteed.

“You are so strong, a warrior and no matter what happens, as a family we will always be united for you. We will love you and miss you now, forever and ever.