Police arrested a 24-year-old man on suspicion of murder after a body was found in a pond – he is believed to be known to missing Bournemouth dad Richard Bentley
A man has been arrested after police searching for a missing dad found a body floating in a pond this week. Dorset Police said today a 24-year-old man from Bournemouth had been arrested on suspicion of murder.
The body is thought to be that of 55-year-old Richard Bentley, who was last seen in November. While officers are still waiting for formal identification of the body, Mr Bentley’s next of kin have been informed. Detective Chief Inspector Neil Third, of the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Richard Bentley at this difficult time.
“To enable us to gather as much information as possible about Richard Bentley’s disappearance, and in order to provide legal protection for the individual, we have made an arrest.
“Our enquiries are continuing in the area the body was found and we want to hear from anyone who has seen suspicious activity in that area.
“We are still seeking anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Richard Bentley since November 2024 to please come forward – you may have vital details to help us establish what has happened.
“Visible policing activity in the area will continue over the coming days to enable us to work out the full circumstances of the death. We would like to thank the public for their patience while the cordon is in place and would encourage anyone with information or concerns to please speak with an officer.”
Police found a body in a pond near Chaseside in the Littledown area after being alerted at about 2:29pm on Monday. Mr Bentley was first reported missing on Saturday November 16. His next of kin was informed and officers have updated them about the latest developments.
His daughter Miranda previously made a heartfelt appeal to find her missing dad. She told the Bournemouth Echo: “I would like to appeal to you to make contact with your family, who are all extremely worried for you.
“We just want to make sure you are safe and well and would ask anyone who may have knowledge of Richard’s whereabouts to please contact the police.”
Mr Bentley was last seen on November 12 in the Townsend area of the city before being reported missing four days later.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240176625.
Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.Dorset Police, Force Headquarters, Winfrith, Dorchester, Dorset. DT2 8DZ