A man accused of raping an 11-year-old girl and murdering her alongside her mum and two other children at a sleepover has been ordered to undergo a brain scan.
Damien Bendall, 31, is accused of raping and murdering 11-year-old Lacey Bennett, killing her brother John, 13, and Lacey’s friend Connie Gent, 11.
He is also accused of murdering his partner Terri Harris, 35, who was mum to little Lacey and John.
Bendall, who grew up in Swindon, was charged after four bodies were discovered at a house in Killamarsh, Derbys., on September 19.
He was due to appear at Derby Crown Court today (Tue) charged with four counts of murder and one of rape.
But the case was adjourned after it emerged the court was still awaiting the results of an MRI scan which took place on December 6.
Judge Nirmal Shant QC also ordered Bendall to undergo an electroencephalogram (EEG) to test for seizures.
Bendal, of Chandos Crescent, Killamarsh, spoke only to confirm his name during the ten-minute hearing.
Judge Shant said: “I am very disappointed in the lack of progress in this case. I will direct the prison the results of MRI scan by 4pm tomorrow.
“Damien Bendall, please stand. You will appear here on Tuesday January 18.
“On that occasion you will be expected to answer to this indictment. In the meantime, you are remanded in custody.”
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