Stepfather accused of student’s murder declines to testify at trial

Nathan Owens, 34, accused of murdering his 19-year-old stepdaughter Carla Georgescu, has chosen not to give evidence in his defence at Preston Crown Court. Prosecutors allege he strangled the university student in February, driven by sexual jealousy over her plans to meet a man she had known online. The jury has heard evidence about his alleged fixation on Carla and his late-night visit to her student accommodation.

CCTV footage shown at trial captured Owens entering the building at about 4am and leaving around 90 minutes later, wearing a face covering and Carla’s trainers and carrying two bags. Prosecutors say he drove more than 100 miles to Preston, then returned to Hartlepool and disposed of items, while later searching online about suspicious-death investigations and wiping devices. Carla’s body was found the day after her 20th birthday was due; the jury is expected to hear closing speeches next.