Harrison Lawrence-van Pooss, from Margate, charged with murder of Claire Knights, from Upstreet, Canterbury
14:13, 18 September 2023
updated: 17:22, 18 September 2023
A 20-year-old man has been charged with the murder of a “loving mum” discovered dead more than three weeks ago.
Claire Knights’ body was found in a ditch by a member of her family during a search of the Minnis Bay area of Birchington on Friday, August 25.
Harrison Lawrence-van Pooss, from Margate, was today charged with murdering the talented artist.
He is also accused of voyeurism following an investigation into a separate incident in which ‘upskirt’ images of a woman were covertly taken on Tuesday, August 22.
He was arrested on suspicion of murder on Thursday, August 24 – the day before Ms Knights was found dead.
An inquest earlier this month heard Ms Knights had died from blunt-force trauma and drowning.
The 54-year-old, from Upstreet near Canterbury, was reported missing on Wednesday, August 23, leading to a widespread search.
Posters were put up on shelters, posts and businesses in the area, and neighbours reported seeing helicopters and an increased police presence.
An inquest heard how Ms Knights’ dog was found running loose on the beach, and her Suzuki car was discovered parked nearby in Shuart Lane, St Nicholas-at-Wade.
Following the tragedy, Ms Knights’ family released a brief statement, describing her as “a trailblazer in life”.
“Claire was a loving mum, partner, daughter and sister,” they added.
“An amazing contemporary artist, a trailblazer in life. She loved animals and in particular, her springer spaniel, Zebulon.
“We, the family, are struggling to come to terms with the fact she is no longer with us.
“We wish to thank friends and the community for their active support and kind words.”
A well-known figure in the Kent art community, Ms Knights was described as a “bright and intelligent thinker” by friends and contemporaries.
Uwe Derksen, director of The Margate School, where Ms Knights studied, paid tribute to his former student, saying: “She was an outstanding, exceptional artist and student, and anyone who had the privilege to see her work would no doubt agree.”
Lawrence-van Pooss is due to appear before Medway magistrates by videolink this afternoon.
