Two Women Charged with Murder Following Death in Braintree

Two women have been charged with murder following a long-running investigation into the death of a woman in Braintree.

Helen Bloomfield, 52, was found dead at her home in Aetheric Road on 19 April 2024.

Her death was initially treated as unexpected, but subsequent enquiries indicated the circumstances were suspicious.

Following an investigation by the Serious Crime Directorate, Essex Police have now charged two people.

Amy Keely, 40, of no fixed address, and Charlotte James, 29, of St Michael’s Lane, Braintree, have both been charged with murder.

They appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 9 April and are due to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court.

Detective Chief Inspector Greg Wood said Helen had been found in unusual circumstances and is believed to have been dead for several weeks before she was discovered.

He added that investigators have spent the last two years carefully examining the evidence before securing the charges.

Throughout the investigation, Helen’s family have been supported by specialist family liaison officers.

“Our thoughts remain with Helen’s family who have endured an incredibly difficult two years following her death,” he said.

🍓 Strawberry Reporter says:
This is one of those cases that many will remember as a quiet, unresolved story at the time. The fact charges have now been brought nearly two years later shows just how long and detailed these investigations can be.

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