Fury as guitarist charged with Bobbi-Anne’s murder
THE devastated family and friends of teenager Bobbi-Anne McLeod hurled abuse at the lead guitarist of a band as he appeared in court yesterday charged with her murder.
Cody Ackland, 24, who plays in the group Rakuda and lives with his mother, was accused of killing 18-year-old Bobbi-Anne between November 20 and 23.
He walked into court covered by a blanket and spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address. He was not asked to enter a plea.
The chair of the magistrates, Louise Ferris, sent him for trial at Plymouth Crown Court and remanded him in custody until November 29.
There were angry shouts from the public gallery as the suspect – wearing a grey tracksuit and a blue face mask – was taken back into custody after the three-minute hearing.
It is understood that Ackland, who lives in Plymouth, was born in Germany, where his
father, 53, is believed to have served in the British Army.
His parents are separated but live close to each other in the Devon city.
Ackland’s five-piece band are named after Bar Rakuda, a popular venue in the city centre which they frequent.
They are well known on the city’s indie music scene, and have built up a cult following by playing gigs at a number of bars and clubs around Plymouth and the West Country. Yesterday the group announced it was disbanding.
They wrote on Facebook: “The remaining members of Rakuda; Josh, Ross, Josh and Mike, are all extremely shocked and in complete disbelief by the tragic event that has unfolded over the last several days.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Bobbi-Anne McLeod’s family and friends who must be devastated at their loss.
“As a mark of respect, we have decided that we shall not be going forward as a band and will be disbanding with immediate effect.”
Bobbi-Anne was last seen waiting at a bus stop near her home in Leigham in Plymouth at 6pm last Saturday.
She had been on her way to meet friends in town.
A woman’s body, which has not been formally identified, was found at Bovisand, south of the city on Tuesday.