Charge approved in October homicide

• Bechard Rd homicide in October
• Woman was originally released
• Charge approved by BC Public Prosecution service

A 54-year-old woman from Kelowna is in custody after being charged with an October murder.

Kelowna RCMP said Wednesday, Billie Jo Bennett was arrested in Kamloops and remains in custody at this time to be brought before the courts.

The case drew additional attention because of frustration voiced by Kelowna RCMP following the incident on Oct. 18.

Police were called to 661 Bechard Rd. When investigators arrived on scene, they located the body of a deceased man whose death was believed to be suspicious.

Bennett was arrested, but the next day, RCMP reported she had been released from custody under the Mental Health Act. RCMP were concerned she had been allowed back into the community without conditions. Police said at the time they were awaiting approval of charges by the BC Public Prosecution Service.

On Dec. 7, the RCMP was advised the charge of second-degree murder had been approved.

As the matter is now before the courts, no further information will be released.