Sabina Nessa death: Garage worker admits killing of primary school teacher - denies murder
A GARAGE worker has denied murder but accepted responsibility for the killing of primary school teacher Sabina Nessa.
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Koci Selamaj travelled to London from his home in Eastbourne to carry out what the prosecution alleges was a "pre-meditated and predatory" attack. It is claimed that he struck Ms Nessa with a 2ft long weapon as she walked through Cator Park in Kidbrooke, southeast London, on her way to meet a friend on September 17.
The body of Ms Nessa, 28, who taught a year one class at Rushey Green Primary School in Catford, was found nearly a day later covered with grass near a community centre in the park.
It is believed Ms Nessa's attacker was a complete stranger to her.
Selamaj, 36, was arrested in the seaside town and charged with her murder.
An Albanian national, he appeared at the Old Bailey for a plea and directions hearing on Thursday.
The defendant, who is in custody, entered a formal not guilty plea to murder, but it was indicated on his behalf that he accepted responsibility for killing Ms Nessa.
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Members of the victim's family sat in court a few metres from the defendant in the dock who was helped by an Albanian interpreter.
Bearded Selamaj, who wore a facemask and grey T-shirt, spoke only to confirm his identity and enter his plea.
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Senior judge, Mr Justice Wall, set a further hearing on February 25 next year.
He set a trial of up to five weeks from June 7 next year. The defendant was remanded into custody.