Wayne Couzens has pleaded guilty to the kidnap and rape of Sarah Everard.
The 48-year-old appeared before a hearing at the Old Bailey this morning (8 June), and 'accepted responsibility' for killing the 33-year-old in March this year.
He was not asked to enter a plea for the charge of murder.
Advert
Ms Everard, a marketing executive, went missing while on her way home from a friend's place in Clapham, South London, on 3 March.
Her remains were found a week later in a woodland in Kent, with dental records confirming her identity.
At a hearing on 19 March, it was revealed Ms Everard's boyfriend was the first person to report her as missing.
Advert
He told the authorities she had failed to show up for a work meeting and hadn't responded to his attempts to get in contact.
Acting Detective Inspector Lee Tullett said during the hearing: "From her last movements we have ascertained she attended a friend from university's address for dinner in Clapham in South London.
"She left about 9pm. She made an approximately 15-minute phone call which terminated at 9.27pm.
"There was no further activity we have been able to establish on her phone, and no social media presence either.
Advert
"She failed to attend a meeting at work the following day. It was all very much out of character and at that point, her boyfriend Josh grew concerned having not heard from her for some time."
On 9 March, Couzens was arrested in connection with her disappearance.
Discussing the development at the time, Assistant Commissioner Nick Ephgrave said it was 'shocking and deeply disturbing'.
He told the press: "This is a serious and significant development in our search for Sarah.
"The fact that the arrested man is a serving Metropolitan Police officer is both shocking and deeply disturbing. I recognise the significant concern this will cause.
Advert
"It's really important that the investigation team are given the space and time to find Sarah, and they're working at full speed to do so.
"I would also like to thank all members of the public who have come forward since we made our appeal to give information.
"Every piece of information is important to us, and I would reissue that request now, [for] anyone who thinks they may know anything about Sarah's disappearance to come forward.
"As a father myself to four young women, I can only imagine the anguish that Sarah's family are feeling at this very, very difficult time.
Advert
"My thought and prayers, and those of the entire organisation, are with them now."
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Police, crime, London, court