A man accused of the murder of Sarah Albone in Biggleswade could not appear in court on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, because a prison lift was not working.
Matthew Waddell, 34, should have been on a video link from Bedford prison to St Albans Crown Court.
Prosecutor Nigel Osborne told Judge Richard Foster: “I understand there is difficulty getting him to court.”
Waddell is on crutches and was unable to be transported to the prison video room.
His barrister Naeem Mian KC said he was happy for the preliminary hearing to go ahead in his absence.
Judge Foster said a plea hearing would take place on April 24, 2023.
A date for a three week trial at Luton Crown Court was set for August 21. The body of Ms Albone, 38, was found at her home in Winston Crescent on Saturday, February 25.
She had been reported missing by family members on Tuesday, February 21, who were concerned they had not seen her since before Christmas.
Judge Richard Foster remanded Matthew Waddell, who address was also Winston Crescent, Biggleswade, in custody.
Sarah Albone’s family are being supported by specialist officers.
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