New Legal Representation Secured
A man accused of murdering Chloe Mitchell in Ballymena has obtained a new legal team. He appeared at Belfast Crown Court on Friday accompanied by a new solicitor and barrister.
This development follows the recent withdrawal of his previous legal representatives earlier this month, who stated they were "professionally compromised."
Brandon Rainey, aged 29, is currently on remand at Maghaberry Prison. He faces charges of murder and attempting to prevent the lawful burial of Chloe Mitchell's body.
Rainey's newly appointed legal team has yet to receive the case papers from his former solicitor but assured the court they anticipate obtaining them by the end of the day.
"There's urgency in terms of this case proceeding," the judge remarked, highlighting that this case is among those exempt from the ongoing barristers' strike.
A further court mention for the case has been scheduled for Friday, 27 March, one week from the current hearing.
The judge added, "there is a need to get this case on as soon as possible after the Easter recess."
Addressing the large public gallery, which included close family members of Chloe Mitchell, the judge commented that the appointment of a new legal team for the defendant "is to be welcomed."
Background on Chloe Mitchell's Case
Chloe Mitchell was 21 years old when she disappeared from Ballymena in early June 2023. Her disappearance triggered extensive search efforts, culminating in the discovery of her remains approximately one week later.
Following these events, Brandon Rainey was arrested and charged with her murder, alleged to have occurred between 2 and 5 June 2023. Additionally, he faces charges of attempting to prevent the lawful and decent burial of a deceased body.
