Defendant denies murder after death of missing man

Richard PriceWest Midlands
News imageFamily A man with short grey hair, a tattoo on his neck and a white shirt. He is standing outside with a plant-covered fence visible behind him.Family
Jake Mills, 34, was found dead on 18 September

A man has appeared in court and pleaded not guilty to murder over the death of a man in Staffordshire

Jake Mills, 34, was found dead at an address on High Street, Cheslyn Hay, at about 21:45 BST on 18 September after he was reported missing earlier that day.

Bradley Nightingale, of Bloxwich, Walsall, appeared at Birmingham Crown Court on Monday.

The 29-year-old was remanded in custody ahead of his next appearance at Stafford Crown Court on 7 November, with a trial date set for 20 April.

In a tribute to Mr Mills, his family said he was a loving son, brother and single father who "shared a strong bond with his daughter", and was a keen Liverpool FC fan.

"Jake had a delightful sense of humour, was considerate and well mannered. That will be remembered with great fondness," the family added.

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