Trial date is pencilled in for 'Crossbow Cannibal' after video court appearance

Stephen Shaun Griffiths, 40, appeared at Bradford Crown Court yesterday over a video link from Wakefield Jail while a timetable was discussed for the case.

Relatives of his alleged victims sat in the jury box to watch proceedings during which Griffiths, dressed in a grey sweatshirt and tracksuit trousers, was shown sitting at a table either with his arms folded and head down or at one stage with his head propped on one hand.

He spoke only once to confirm his name and there was no repeat of his conduct during an earlier appearance before Bradford magistrates during which he referred to himself as the "Crossbow Cannibal".

Griffiths of Holmfield Court, Thornton Road, Bradford, who was studying for a PhD in 19th century Bradford homicides, is accused of murdering Suzanne Blamires between May 21 and 25 this year, Shelley Armitage between April 25 and May 25 this year and Susan Rushworth between June 22 last year and May 25 this year.

All three worked as prostitutes in Bradford's red light district.

Heather Gilmore, prosecuting, said extensive forensic inquiries were ongoing, which will include a further three weeks of examination at Griffiths's flat, but the basic case papers could be served by July 16.

Judge James Goss QC set a review hearing for that date before a High Court Judge, Mr Justice Openshaw at Sheffield Crown Court, which will again be conducted over a videolink.

He also set a provisional trial date for November 16 at Bradford Crown Court which is within the custody time limits.

Ian Howard. representing Griffiths. told the judge there would be no resistance to a trial beyond that date early in the new year because it was likely more time would be needed.

He said the defence was intending to look into Griffiths's mental state and would actively be seeking a consultation with those who administer institutions such as Rampton Hospital to see if they might be better "to cater for his needs".

Towards the end of the hearing Judge Goss reminded the media and members of the public of their responsibilities under the Contempt of Court Act 1981 to avoid prejudicing the proceedings including publishing material on the internet.Body parts belonging to Ms Blamires, 36, were found in the River Aire in Shipley on May 25 four days after she was last seen and tests later confirmed that a small piece of human tissue later found in the same river belonged to Miss Armitage, 31, who had been missing since April 26.