Horrific Murder Trial of Shane Lee Mays Begins in Havant
Warning: This trial involves graphic and distressing details.
Shane Lee Mays, 30, from Somborne Drive, Havant, stands accused of murdering Louise Cooper. Her burned and battered body was found in Havant Thicket woodland on May 21, weeks after she was last seen on May 8. The discovery followed an intense police search.
Family Faces Harrowing Courtroom Battle
Louise’s mother, Rebecca Cooper, and the family are back in court, shaken but determined to seek justice for Louise. Despite being devastated by the shocking evidence, they vow to stay strong throughout the trial before Honourable Justice May DBE.
Disturbing Details of the Attack Revealed
- The prosecution described Louise’s death as “cruel and brutal.”
- Her body was so badly burned it was barely recognisable.
- She suffered repeated, violent blows to the head, shattering her skull and detaching her jawbone.
- Reports reveal severe physical abuse and violation.
- Louise was vulnerable, battling anxiety and depression, and was on antidepressants.
Detective Constable Julie Way and prosecutor Mr Newton-Price told the court Mays lied about his whereabouts the day Louise vanished. Evidence shows he “lured” her to a remote area before attacking her with “unimaginable cruelty.”
Damning Forensic Evidence
- Blood spatters matching Louise’s DNA were found on Mays’ left trainer.
- Evidence confirmed multiple punches to Louise’s face.
- Pathology suggests Louise died on May 8 or 9.
- It’s likely Mays returned later to burn the body, avoiding CCTV by taking a hidden route.
Audio recordings played in court revealed CJay Mays, Shane’s wife, reporting Louise missing on the evening of May 8, with Shane’s voice audible in the background.
Defence Admits Assault, Denies Murder Intent
Mays, through his lawyer Andrew Langdon QC, confessed to attacking Louise after a heated argument. He says he lost his temper, accepts his punches contributed to her death but denies intending to kill her. Mays admitted lying about walking Louise to Emsworth and acknowledges his DNA was found at the crime scene.
Courtroom Drama and Heartbreaking Testimonies
Louise’s boyfriend described the night before her disappearance as strange, especially when her phone suddenly went off. Text messages showed Louise struggling emotionally, expressing a desire to call Mays and his wife her “mum and dad” but also confessing fears about her living situation, calling it “vile.”
CCTV footage captured the last confirmed images of Louise and Mays together on May 7, shopping and walking through Havant. On May 8, police tracked Mays’ movements via CCTV, further tying him to the timeline of events.
Family Pleads for Justice and Information
Rebecca Cooper told media: “Louise was deeply loved by family and friends and will be dearly missed by all.” She and the family urge anyone with information to contact police on 101.
The trial continues with the prosecution presenting more evidence to the jury. Due to the graphic nature of the case, sensitive readers are warned to brace for disturbing details.
