'Conspiracy to murder arrest' in case of dad missing for more than a year

Police arrested a woman on suspicion of 'conspiracy to murder' in their investigation to find a missing Warwickshire dad. Stefan Watkins – known as Lee or LeeLee – has not been seen since he left his home in Warwick on May 6 last year.

The more than year-long Warwickshire Police investigation has led to an arrest. A force spokesperson confirmed that yesterday (July 9) a 45-year-old woman from Warwick was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder.

She was taken into custody for questioning. She has since been bailed pending further enquiries.

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It means that the investigation into the disappearance of the dad continues. Detectives previously said the now 48-year-old has connections to Hillfields in Coventry and Warwickshire.

'No proof of life'

There were initial reports that he was seen in Coventry in May last year, but detectives say that they have found 'no proof of life' since he left his home.

But they say they remain 'open-minded' and have once again appealed to the public for help. Senior Investigating Officer, Gareth Unett said: “Initial enquiries suggested that Stefan had travelled to Coventry in the early hours of 7 May last year.

“Unfortunately, despite significant investigative work, we have no confirmed proof of life after CCTV showed him leaving his home in Warwick.

“We remain open-minded and truly hope he’s alive and well, however, the information we’ve gathered so far suggests he may have come to harm.

“This week we have arrested a woman in connection with his disappearance and our investigations continue.”

DI Unett added: “Given the length of time that has passed, it’s important to get closure for his partner and we continue to provide updates and support to her.

“If Stefan is alive and well or you know something about where he may be, please get in touch through our online portal or anonymously via Crimestoppers. It was the King’s coronation on the day Stefan left home so we hope this might help to jog people’s memory.

“Any information, no matter how small, could prove crucial to our ongoing investigation. Please help us get answers for Stefan’s loved ones.”

Anyone with information can submit it through the portal, on the force website or can pass on details anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.

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