Man charged with murder of Nicola Cross

http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2015/sep/16/man-charged-with-of-nicola-cross

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A man has been charged with murder after a woman was found dead at her home in Hemel Hempstead.

Nicola Cross, a 37-year-old mother of two, was found with stab wounds in the property by officers on Monday. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Marcin Porczynski, 25, also from Hemel Hempstead, has been charged with murder, two counts of kidnap and a burglary at a neighbouring property, Hertfordshire constabulary said.

He remains in police custody before his first court appearance on Thursday at Hatfield magistrates court.

A 19-year-old man arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to burgle has been released on police bail until 24 September.

DCI Jerome Kent, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire major crime unit, said: “Nicola’s family remain at the forefront of our minds at this extremely tragic time. The children are safe and with family, who continue to be supported by specially trained officers.

“We fully appreciate the events of Monday night have also significantly impacted the wider community, however, I would like to reassure you that this was a tragic and isolated incident, the events of which are highly unusual within Hertfordshire.

“Officers remain in the area to offer reassurance and residents are encouraged to talk to them if they have any concerns.”