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Cops investigating PCSO Julia James’ murder stopping cars in road checks today as they vow to ‘leave no stone unturned’

POLICE investigating the murder of a PCSO are spot-checking cars as they vow to leave “no stone unturned”.

Julia James, 53, was bludgeoned to death in Snowdown, Kent, a week ago with her killer still at large.

Julia James was murdered a week ago with her killer still on the loose

Police today confirmed they will be carrying out spot checks on cars in the area between 12.30pm and 6.30pm today in a fresh plea for witnesses.

Officers will also observe a minute’s silence at 2.30pm today in honour of the PCSO, who had worked for Kent Police for 15 years.

Chief Constable Tom Richards said: “PCSO Julia James was a much-loved member of the policing family and we are all shocked and devastated by her death. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies remain with her family and friends.

“I would like to reassure them and everyone else that we are leaving no stone unturned in investigating what happened to Julia and bringing whoever was responsible to justice.

“My thanks go to the significant number of people who have spoken to us and provided information to date.

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Police today issued a fresh appeal for information[/caption]

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They will be carrying out spot checks on roads in the hamlet where Julia’s body was found[/caption]

“If you think you might know something and have not already spoken to us then please do get in touch, no matter how insignificant you might think it is. Sometimes the smallest pieces of information lead to the biggest breakthroughs.

“We understand why people living in the Snowdown area and further afield may feel uncertain about their own safety following Julia’s death, and we continue to advise people to remain vigilant until the full circumstances are established.”

Police also confirmed they have set up a tent in Market Square, Aylesham, for anyone with information.

It comes as Julia’s heartbroken family urged people to light a candle on their doorstep tonight in memory of the mum-of-two.

Julia with her son Patrick and daughter Bethan, who has urged the public to light a candle a week on from her murder
Julia with her son Patrick and daughter Bethan, who has urged the public to light a candle a week on from her murder

Daughter Bethan Coles wrote on Facebook yesterday: “I’m so grateful for people sharing posts for #justiceforjulia

“A number of people have asked about holding a vigil for Mum, and whilst I am so grateful for people wanting to remember her, I am very conscious that any gathering would need to be policed (if it was even allowed), I’ve discussed this with my family and we are in agreement that we would prefer all police resources to be concentrating on the investigation as there is so much work to be done.

“I’ve been thinking perhaps we could ask those who wish to remember Mum to light a candle for her and leave it on their doorstep. This would be a beautiful nod to Mum in a way that doesn’t intrude on the Police investigation.

“Tomorrow marks a week since we lost Mum. At 7pm I will light a candle for her. #justiceforjulia”

It comes as the hunt for Julia’s killer enters its seventh day – with police admitting they have “no clear suspects”.

Kent Police Assistant Chief Constable Tom Richards said last week the force can’t rule out if her killer was someone she came across in her work, a potential dog-napper or if there was a sexual motive.

Julia, who worked for the domestic violence unit, was not on duty at the time of her death or wearing uniform and had just popped out to walk the dog after working from home during the day.

And ACC Richards said all of her possessions were still with her body – with Jack Russell Toby unharmed.


Locals have now been urged to “remain cautious, vigilant and aware of your surroundings when out and about”.

Officers are keen to speak to anyone in the area on Monday or Tuesday who may have seen something unusual or suspicious.

Anyone with information should call 0800 0514526 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

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Tributes have flooded in for PCSO Julia[/caption]