Man charged with murder after 'much-loved' ex-soldier found dead in flat

Police were called to a flat in Leicestershire on December 23, where 49-year-old ex-soldier Simon Geary was pronounced dead at the scene

A 49-year-old man has been charged with murder in connection with the death of "much-loved" ex-soldier Simon Geary.

Police were called to a flat in Leicestershire at around 11.45am on Tuesday, December 23, after Mr Geary, 49, was found unresponsive. He was later pronounced dead at the scene in George Toon Court in Brook Street.

Graham Howard, 49, of George Toon Court, Brook Street, has now been charged with one count of murder and is due to appear at Leicester Magistrates' Court on Boxing Day. Police say a cordon will remain in place at the scene to allow specialist teams to carry out enquiries, Leicestershire Live reports.

In a statement, Mr Geary's family said: "Simon was a much-loved son and brother. The support he has given our family will never be forgotten. He was a kind caring soul who served his country in the Army and we are so proud of what he achieved in his career.

"We would ask the public to please respect our privacy at this very difficult time."

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