Crime commissioner thanks police for work on Bobbi-Anne McLeod murder

Alison Hernandez "can't imagine pain" of family

Devon and Cornwall's police and crime commissioner says she "can't imagine the pain" that the family of Bobbi-Anne McLeod are going through.

Alison Hernandez was commenting on the day Ms McLeod's killer, Cody Ackland, pleaded guilty at Plymouth Crown Court to Ms McLeod's murder.

She had gone missing on the night of 20 November last year, with her body being found at Bovisand three days later.

The police and crime commissioner says she is pleased that, because of the guilty plea, "the case will be concluded swiftly and hopes the family of Bobbi-Anne McLeod will be able to get the answers they need concerning this hugely troubling case."

Mr Ackland, a musician was arrested shortly after he killed the teenager, and on Tuesday this week appeared in court for the first time since 26 November.

The judge has told him that he will be sentenced to life imprisonment, the mandatory sentence for murder; the only question is what the minimum term he will serve before being considered for parole.

In a statement, Alison Hernandez said: “I can’t even start to imagine the pain that Bobbi-Anne McLeod’s family and friends have been through over these past few months.

“While there is no justice that can bring Bobbi-Anne back, I’m pleased this case will be concluded swiftly and I truly hope the family will get the answers they need to provide some closure on this terrible incident.

“I’d like to thank the police for their hard work in bringing Cody Ackland to justice. I’d also like to thank the community of Plymouth who have shown courage, empathy and incredible support during this dark time for the city.

“If you have been affected by this case and want to speak to someone, you can contact Victim Support on 0808 1689111 or the Devon and Cornwall Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.”