How the case against Luke Mitchell unfolded

Published on Friday 16 May 2008 13:45

Timeline of events that led to today's appeal being thrown out.

&#149 June 30, 2003

Jodi Jones is reported missing by her mother at around 10.40pm. Her mutilated body is found shortly afterwards on a path.

&#149 July 1

Lothian and Borders Police launches a murder investigation.

&#149 July 3

School summer holidays start, and Jodi's killer is still at large. Among the tributes near the path where her body was found is a bouquet of roses from her boyfriend, Luke Mitchell.

&#149 July 4

Mitchell is interviewed by police. Forensic officers search Mitchell's home and take away a number of items.

&#149 August 14

Mitchell is detained by police investigating Jodi's death, but later released without charge.

&#149 August 20

Jodi's classmates return to school, but Mitchell is banned from attending the first days of the term because of fears for his safety.

&#149 September 3

On the day of Jodi's funeral, Mitchell gives his first media interview. Asked if he had killed his girlfriend, Mitchell replies: "No. I never, I wouldn't."

&#149 November 21

Police submit a report to the procurator fiscal which names Mitchell as the prime suspect for the murder.

&#149 April 14 2004

Mitchell is arrested and charged.

&#149 November 11

The murder trial opens at the High Court in Edinburgh.

&#149 January 21, 2005

Mitchell is found guilty of the murder of Jodi Jones.

&#149 February 11

Mitchell sentenced to serve at least 20 years.

&#149 August 2005

Mitchell's appeal is lodged.

&#149 February 5, 2008

Mitchell's appeal begins in Edinburgh.

&#149 Luke Mitchell loses murder appeal

&#149 Urine under bed paints picture of oddball killer

&#149 How the case against Luke Mitchell unfolded

&#149 Read summary of the appeal court decision