Indie band guitarist charged with murder of Bobbi-Anne
Musician accused over student, 18, whose body was found in woodland
THE lead guitarist in an indie rock band was charged yesterday with the murder of teenager Bobbi-Anne McLeod.
Cody-James Ackland, 24, is alleged to have abducted college student Miss McLeod, 18, from a bus stop in Plymouth last Saturday.
Members of the teenager’s family shouted abuse at him from the public gallery as he appeared at Plymouth Magistrates’ Court yesterday.
Ackland, a member of local indie band Rakuda, spoke only to confirm his name, age and address during the twominute hearing.
The magistrates remanded him in custody to appear before Plymouth Crown Court on Monday.
Ackland, who lives with his mother, arrived at court with a blue towel draped over his head and left the dock with his head bowed.
He was born in Germany, where his family were living on a British military base at the time. His father, 53, is now separated from his mother.
His band, which has released several songs on music streaming platform Spotify, revealed they were splitting up after the murder charge was announced.
A statement from the group read: ‘The remaining members of Rakuda – Josh, Ross, Josh and Mike – are all extremely shocked and in complete disbelief at 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 will be disbanding with immediate effect.’
Miss McLeod’s disappearance led to a three-day manhunt before her body was found around four miles away in woodland near Bovisand.
‘Extremely shocked’