Rhode Island man charged on suspicion of killing woman who disappeared 2 years ago

WARWICK, R.I. (TCN) — A 64-year-old man stands accused of killing a 45-year-old missing woman who disappeared the same year the suspect was arrested for a separate alleged disturbance in his neighborhood.

According to the Warwick Police Department, Charlotte Lester was last seen on May 16, 2022, near Staples Avenue. Her dog, Chloe, as well as her 2006 Toyota Tacoma, were found abandoned days later.

In a press conference held Nov. 20, police announced that they discovered Lester’s remains and charged Mark Perkins with first-degree murder in connection with the victim’s death. Officers said the investigation is ongoing, and they did not specify how Lester died.

In the press conference, police said Perkins and Lester “had a relationship” in the past. According to the Warwick Post, Lester often went to Perkins’ home.

Perkins was previously arrested in August 2017, just three months after Lester went missing. Perkins allegedly assaulted a man who was recording a Facebook Live show across from his home. The victim had reportedly questioned Perkins before the incident, which “agitated” him. Perkins reportedly “aggressively” pushed a lawn mower at the man and threatened to kill him. Perkins was charged with assault with intent to commit specified felonies, larceny, vandalism, and disorderly conduct.

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