Police appeal for information on anniversary of Jesse Richards’ death

West Mercia Police have issued an appeal seven years after the death of Jesse Richards in Cleeve Prior, Evesham.

Detectives investigating the death of Jesse are urging the local community to come forward with information to help trace his body which has remained outstanding since his death on 31st July 2009.

Jesse, who was originally from Gloucester, was killed in a sustained and brutal attack over a drugs debt.  Five men were jailed in connection with his death and were collectively sentenced to more than 50 years in prison. His family continue to hope that Jesse will be found and his mother, Lucy Richards, has reiterated her appeal for anyone with information to come forward.

She said: “I speak to those people who have information but haven’t contacted police.  If they could for one minute put themselves in my place they would know the heartache I am feeling and have felt for the last 7 years.

“I ask anyone who has any information that could lead me to my son’s body to please contact the police.”

Superintendent Mark Loader led the investigation. He said: “Jesse was killed seven years ago and his killers have been brought to justice for their crimes.  However, his family continue to suffer and we want to give them the opportunity to lay Jesse to rest.

“The investigation found evidence to suggest Jesse’s body was transported to an area in Warwickshire some time after his death but was never found.  We know some individuals have information which could lead us to Jesse’s body and are choosing not to come forward.  I appeal to them to consider the pain Jesse’s family continue to suffer long after his death and ask them to re-consider contacting police.

“If you have any concerns about coming forward to police you can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and make an anonymous report with any information you have.”

A £10,000 reward is still available for information leading to the successful discovery of Jesse’s body and anyone with any information is encouraged to contact police using the non-emergency number 101.

Gloucester News Centre – http://gloucesternewscentre.co.uk