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Stabbed police officer is named Family pay tribute to stabbed Pc
(about 1 hour later)
A policewoman found stabbed to death in her home has been formally identified. The family of a Leicestershire policewoman found stabbed to death in her home have spoken of their grief.
Melissa Ward, 28, a probationary officer with Leicestershire Police, was discovered dead at her flat in Oakham, Rutland, on Friday. Probationary officer Melissa Ward, 28, was discovered dead at her flat in Oakham, Rutland, along with partner Benedict Marlow, 33, on Friday.
Her body was found along with that of her partner Benedict Marlow, 33, from the West Midlands area. Police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the deaths.
Post-mortem examinations found both died from stab wounds. Police are not looking for anyone else in connection with the deaths. In a statement Melissa's family said they were "utterly devastated at the loss of a loving and loveable daughter and sister, dedicated to her job".
The officer concerned was hard-working, popular and will be sadly missed Ch Supt Chris Rollings, Leicestershire Police "She'll be greatly missed by her family, friends and colleagues and we request the press and media respect the privacy of the family throughout this difficult time," they added.
Officers were called to the flat at The Sidings shortly before 1800 GMT, after members of her family raised concern for her welfare. Concern raised
Ch Supt Chris Rollings, of Leicestershire Police, had earlier paid tribute to Ms Ward. Post-mortem examinations found both died from stab wounds.
"The death of a serving police officer is clearly an extremely tragic event," said Mr Rollings. Officers were called to the flat at The Sidings shortly before 1800 GMT, after members of her family raised concern for Melissa's welfare.
"The officer concerned was hard-working, popular and will be sadly missed. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and colleagues at this time. The loss of this officer will be felt by all." Police said Mr Marlow, from the West Midlands area, was thought to have been staying with the officer at the time of the incident.
The last confirmed sighting of the couple was in the early hours of New Year's Day.
The force is experiencing a great sense of loss Chief Constable Matt Baggott
Chief Constable Matt Baggott paid tribute to the officer, who joined the force 18 months ago.
He said: "The death of a colleague is a terrible shock and the force is experiencing a great sense of loss.
"Although she was young in service ... Melissa had enjoyed a successful career and was greatly respected by her colleagues."
"Our thoughts are with her family, friends and colleagues. Everything possible is being, and will continue to be, done to ensure they receive the support they need at this difficult and distressing time."
Ms Ward, who was based at Welford Road police station, was six months away from graduating to full police officer status.Ms Ward, who was based at Welford Road police station, was six months away from graduating to full police officer status.
She had not worked since before Christmas and was due back on the Leicester city beat next week, Mr Rollings said. She had not worked since before Christmas and was due back on the Leicester city beat next week.
Police said the investigation into the full circumstances surrounding the deaths was continuing.