A MAN has made his first Crown Court appearance charged with battering an older man to death.
William Owen, who was known as Billy, was found unconscious at his Old Swan home on August 19.
Worried neighbours had called the police, who forced their way into his Ringcroft Road property at about 9pm.
Paramedics were called, but despite their efforts Mr Owen died at the scene.
Gary Rowell, 31, also of Ringcroft Road, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court via video-link from Walton prison yesterday.
He is charged with Mr Owen’s murder, as well as two counts of false imprisonment and a separate allegation of raping a woman.
Shaven-headed and wearing a striped jumper, Rowell spoke only to confirm his name.
He did not enter a plea to any of the charges.
The Recorder of Liverpool, Judge Henry Globe, QC, remanded Rowell in custody until November 16 when he will be expected to enter pleas to the charges.
He also set a trial date for February 8, with a two-week estimate.
