Jury trial for Sarah Everard's killer Wayne Couzens over 'indecent exposure' charges

Sarah Everard's killer, Wayne Couzens, has chosen a trial in front of a jury to face four charges of indecent exposure.

The alleged flashing incidents are said to have taken place in Swanley, Kent, in January and February 2021.

Couzens, 49, is already serving a whole-life sentence for the kidnap, rape and murder of Sarah Everard.

He used his Met Police warrant card and handcuffs to kidnap 33-year-old Ms Everard as she walked home from a friend’s house in Clapham, south London, on the evening of March 3.

Today (Wednesday 13 April) he appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court by videolink from Frankland prison, in Durham.

The charges state he allegedly "intentionally exposed his genitals intending that someone would see them and be caused alarm and distress".

The incidents are alleged to have taken place on four occasions in the town, between January 22 and February 1 2021, January 30 and February 6, on February 14 and February 27.

Couzens spoke to confirm his name and date of birth and gave no indication of pleas to any of the charges.

Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring said the case was suitable for trial at the magistrates' court but when asked by the legal advisor where he wanted the case to be heard, Couzens said: "My legal team have advised me at the Crown Court."

Mr Goldspring sent the case to the Old Bailey, where Couzens will next appear on May 11.

He said: "Mr Couzens, you are charged with four offences relating to Section 66 of the Sexual Offences Act.

"You have given no indication as to plea in relation to these four matters.

"I determined that on their own, without what we know happened subsequently, they would be suitable for trial in this court.

"As is your right, you have elected Crown Court trial."