Man arrested in Claudia Lawrence probe is released from bail

The 47-year-old was arrested last July by North Yorkshire Police as part of the inquiry into the suspected murder of the York chef.

The force said today that the decision to release him from his bail conditions was made after consulting with prosecutors and “following information the man provided to us which has progressed the investigation and clarified certain issues”.

Detective Superintendent Dai Malyn, the senior investigating officer in the Claudia Lawrence case, said: “Our investigation into the disappearance and suspected murder of Claudia Lawrence continues to focus on key lines of enquiry that the on-going review is identifying.

“People should also be reminded that any arrest we make must be based on evidence, be that from witnesses, forensic examinations and/or on the basis of other information we gather.

“I am convinced the breakthrough in the investigation will be from this relentless pursuit for the truth.”

Miss Lawrence was reported missing by her father in March 2009 after concerns were raised when she failed to turn up for her 6am shift at work.

North Yorkshire Police began reviewing the case in 2013 and have since carried out a number of searches, including a detailed re-examination of Miss Lawrence’s home, in the Heworth area of the city, and a fingertip search of an alleyway that leads to the rear of the house.

A 60-year-old man was arrested last year in connection with her disappearance and suspected murder but was later released without charge.

A local man in his 50s was arrested last month on suspicion of murder, before being released on bail.

Police have urged the media and public not to publish or broadcast anything “that could compromise the enquiry or the legal rights of those connected to the case”.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 1, and pass details to the Force Control Room. Please quote “Claudia Lawrence” when passing on details.