New appeal in Julie Finley murder case

Police investigating the murder of Liverpool woman Julie Finley 12 years ago have confirmed that a major review of forensic evidence in the case is now underway.

Twenty-three-year-old Julie was last seen alive on August 5 1994 in Crown Street, Liverpool city centre near to the rear of the Royal University Hospital.

Her naked body was discovered the next day in a carrot field near the Wheatsheaf pub on the Rainford by-pass. She had been strangled.

Detective Chief Inspector Francis Youell, who is leading the investigation, said that a major review of forensic evidence recovered at the time of the murder is continuing by scientists from the Forensic Science Service at Chorley.

He said: "Given the huge advances that have been made in forensic science over the past 12 years. particularly in the field of DNA, and the large number of suspects whose DNA profiles are now contained in the case of the brutal murder of Julie Finley is entirely appropriate at this time."

Det Ch Insp Youell also appealed for a friend of Julie's named Tina, who contacted the murder team by telephone shortly after the murder, to get back in touch with police.

Tina told police that, on the night of the murder, Julie told her that she intended to meet a taxi driver from the Prescot area. However, Tina failed to re-contact the police as promised.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

(KMcA)