Trial date set for Cameron Cheng, 19, accused of murder

The case of a man accused of murdering a 17-year-old schoolgirl was heard in Cardiff Crown Court this afternoon. Cameron Cheng, 19, charged with the murder of Lainie Williams in Cefn Fforest, Blackwood on Thursday, November 13 last year did not need to attend the pre-trial review hearing. The defendant is also accused of the attempted murder of Miss Williams’ mother Rhian Stephens and possession of a bladed article in a public place. A provisional trial date of Monday, May 11 was vacated and a mention hearing is now set to take place on Friday, May 22. The Recorder of Cardiff, Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke adjourned the hearing to next month. Cheng was represented by Jonathan Rees KC and the prosecution by David Elias KC. The defendant, of Blaen Blodau Street, Newbridge has been remanded in custody since he appeared at Newport Magistrates’ Court last autumn.