By Erin Pearson
A woman accused of murdering her neighbour in West Footscray and dumping the body in the Maribyrnong River had allegedly broken into the elderly woman’s home to steal cash and jewellery.
Court documents show Milena Bogojevska, 49, is charged with murdering 85-year-old Lolene Joy Whitehand on July 12, as well as breaking into the victim’s Glamis Road home with an intent to steal.
A court sketch of Milena Bogojevska.Credit: Paul Tyquin
The third charge alleges Bogojevska stole jewellery, cash, a wallet and personal items, including identification documents belonging to Whitehand, valued at $2000.
Fishermen found Whitehand’s body floating in the Maribyrnong River, near Smithfield Road in Flemington, about 10.30am on July 14. A plastic bag had been tied over her head and her body was covered in bruises.
Other neighbours have since remembered the 85-year-old as “the kindest lady you could meet” and said she was well known in West Footscray for her kind and friendly demeanour.
Bogojevska faced Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday via videolink from Dame Phyllis Frost Centre women’s prison, where she is being held on remand.
The court heard police were seeking more time to comb through CCTV footage that would be critical to the prosecution’s case.
Bogojevska’s lawyer also attempted to have her name and image withheld from the public, a move which was opposed by The Age.
Magistrate Stephen Ballek rejected the defence application and removed a previous interim order that had suppressed her identity.
He also granted the prosecution’s request for 12 weeks to prepare its case – double the usual time.
Whitehand had been missing since 4pm on July 12, sparking concerns among loved ones. Days later, homicide squad detectives arrested Bogojevska as part of the investigation.
The discovery of Whitehand’s body came about 90 minutes after the body of a 20-year-old Colombian man was found in the Maribyrnong River near Saltriver Place in Footscray.
Police say the man’s death is not being treated as suspicious and that the two deaths are not linked.
The case is expected to return to court in November.
Officers still want to speak to anyone who has CCTV or dashcam footage from the areas around Glamis Road, West Footscray, or Smithfield Road, Flemington, near Lynch’s Bridge, between 12pm on Friday, July 12, and 10.30am on Sunday, July 14.
Police also wish to speak to anyone who saw any suspicious activity during that time.
Witnesses or anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage or other information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppersvic.com.au.
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