WARNING: This story contains graphic content. Discretion is advised.
Calgary police have laid charges against a man accused of dismembering and trying to dispose of a woman’s body in Crescent Heights.
The victim’s body was discovered in a treed area on the west side of Centre Street N. and Samis Road N.E. last Wednesday. Police said a passerby made the grisly discovery while on their way to work.
“After investigating a tip from the public, police now believe that the woman died at a residence in the 3900 block of 1 Street N.W.,” police explained in a news release. “It is alleged a man who lived at the residence then decided to dispose of her remains in multiple locations, including the park in Crescent Heights.”
The family has identified the victim as 25-year-old Joey English.
Police said it’s not yet known whether she died as a result of a criminal act.
“We don’t believe the death is criminal in nature, however the actions taken post-death definitely substantiate criminal activity,” Insp. Don Coleman with the Calgary police said. “I believe fear probably did play a significant part of that. As to his exact motivation, I’m not entirely sure, but it’s clear there was a series of bad decisions made.”
READ MORE: Calgary police say body found in Crescent Heights ‘not intact’, purposely put among trees
Joshua Jordan Weise, 40, of Calgary, is charged with one count of offering an indignity to human remains.
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It’s believed Weise had been living in the basement of the house in the 3900 block of 1 Street N.W.
“A nice old lady lives upstairs and, you know, it’s kind of a complete surprise,” neighbour Elise Bieche said.
Weise made a brief court appearance Monday afternoon. He appeared in person, wearing a hooded blue jumpsuit – not the typical remand-issued jumpsuit.
Duty counsel appeared on his behalf. He does not have a lawyer yet.
Weise is being sent for a doctor visit and psych assessment Wednesday morning, which will be followed by another court appearance.
Police suggested Weise and the victim were acquaintances but wouldn’t elaborate on the nature of their relationship.
Police said she was reported missing June 9 by a family member, after her body was discovered.
Anyone with information who hasn’t yet spoken with police is asked to call the Calgary Police Service non-emergency line at 403-266-1234, Homicide Unit Tip Line at 403-428-8877 or contact Crime Stoppers.
– With files from Nancy Hixt
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