Seven People Plead Not Guilty in Connection with Woman’s Murder
Seven individuals have pleaded not guilty to charges related to the death of a woman who was shot and killed at a block of flats in south Wales. The incident has sparked widespread concern and grief, with the community mourning the loss of Joanne Penney.
Joanne Penney, a 40-year-old woman, was found seriously injured at Green Park in Talbot Green, Rhondda Cynon Taf, on 9 March. She died at the scene following the shooting. Emergency services were called to Llys Illtyd flats that day, where they discovered her with severe injuries. An inquest opening in March revealed that she had been shot in the chest, sustaining critical damage to her heart and lungs.
The case has led to eight people being charged, with seven of them appearing at Cardiff Crown Court on Monday. A trial date of 20 October has been set for the proceedings. Among those charged is Melissa Quailey-Dashper, 39, from Leicester, who faces murder charges and allegations of involvement in an organized crime group. However, she did not attend court, and Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke has indicated that a new hearing date will be arranged once her plea is determined.
The Defendants
The seven defendants who appeared in court included:
- Marcus Huntley, 20, from St Mellons, Cardiff, charged with murder and participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group.
- Sai Raj Manne, 25, of no fixed abode, who appeared via video link from HMP Hewell. He faces charges of participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group and possessing or acquiring a firearm.
- Kristina Ginova, 21, from Oadby, Leicestershire, charged with murder and participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group.
- Joshua Gordon, 27, from Oadby, charged with murder and participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group. He appeared from HMP Bristol.
- Jordan Mills-Smith, 33, from Pentwyn, Cardiff, charged with murder and participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group.
- Tony Porter, 68, from Braunstone Town, Leicestershire, charged with murder and participating in the criminal activities of an organised crime group.
- Molly Cooper, 33, from Leicester, charged with participating in the activities of an organised crime group and having in her possession, purchasing, or acquiring ammunition for a firearm without a certificate.
Community Response
In the wake of the tragedy, neighbors showed their support by leaving flowers at the scene. Joanne Penney’s family released a statement expressing their devastation over her loss. They highlighted her “kindness, strength, and love for her family,” emphasizing that these qualities would never be forgotten.
This case marks the sixth murder charge in the region this year, following the tragic death of a woman who was shot in the chest. The inquest into her death provided further details about the circumstances surrounding the incident, shedding light on the severity of the injuries she sustained.
As the legal process continues, the community remains deeply affected by the loss of a beloved individual. The upcoming trial will be closely watched, as it seeks to bring justice for Joanne Penney and address the broader implications of the crime.
