A judge at Belfast Crown Court set a trial date of April 28 for Brandon Rainey, accused of murdering Chloe Mitchell in Ballymena. The 29-year-old man from James Street in the County Antrim town faces charges of murder and attempting to prevent the lawful burial of her body.

Chloe Mitchell, 21, from Ballymena, went missing in early June 2023. Her remains were found eight days later in the town after extensive police searches. Rainey was arrested and charged with killing her between June 2 and 5.

Rainey appeared in court with a new legal team after his previous lawyers withdrew earlier this month. They cited being professionally compromised. The new team, led by Des Fahy KC and instructed by Phoenix Law, received case papers last week.

Defence counsel stated that facilities at the court complex were not suitable for client consultations in this case. A prison consultation with Rainey is scheduled for next week. Rainey remains on remand at Maghaberry Prison.

Prosecution counsel suggested a review hearing on April 13 ahead of the trial. The judge agreed the trial start depends on that review.