Man accused of murdering girl, 9, appears in court for first time
The man accused of killing a nine-year-old as she played with her little sister has appeared in court for the first time.
Lithuanian fruit picker Deividas Skebas, 22, was charged with murder on Sunday after Lilia Valutyte was stabbed to death on the street in Lincolnshire three days before.
He was told by District Judge Peter Deits ‘the offence you are facing is the most serious offence anyone can face in court’ at Lincoln Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
Skebas, who was wearing a grey tracksuit, was remanded into custody during the short two-minute hearing.
The alleged killer spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address this morning. He is set to appear at Lincoln Crown Court later today.
A private memorial was held yesterday in honour of ‘quiet’ Lithuanian schoolgirl Lilia, who loved Harry Potter and dancing.
Her home town of Boston is said to be ‘shaken’ by the fatal attack on Thursday.
Skebas is said to have recently returned to the UK after moving back to Lithuania as he experienced problems with his health.
His ex-girlfriend Beata Sapuskaite, 23, told The Times he has no family in Boston but comes from an ‘upper class’ Lithuanian family who are ‘business people’.
Ms Sapuskaite said her former partner did ‘field work’ but had not been employed by MS Agricultural Services, the agency run by Lilia’s mother.
Police have said they aren’t searching for anyone else in connection with the ‘heartbreaking case’.
Teddy bears and flowers have been left at the scene of Lilia’s death in Fountain Lane.
A note left by a school friend, 9, read: ‘You were the bestest friend. Hopefully you are now with the angels in a better place. You are probably watching Harry Potter.’
Chief Superintendent Martyn Parker said yesterday: ‘This is a heartbreaking case that has affected many people in Boston, and further afield.
‘Our thoughts continue to be with Lilia’s family at this exceptionally difficult time.
‘The response to such a devastating incident has involved committing significant resources to the investigation, and engaging with people in Boston who are understandably shocked by Lilia’s death.
‘Our officers have been in the town, speaking to the public and listening to their concerns. We’ll continue to maintain a significant presence over the coming days.’
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