Murder suspect in missing man investigation bailed

A man arrested on suspicion of murdering a 55-year-old who had not been seen for more than five months has been bailed by police.

Richard Bentley was reported missing on 16 November and a body found on Monday in a pond off Chaseside in Littledown, Bournemouth, is thought to be his.

While officers are still awaiting formal identification, Mr Bentley's next of kin have been informed.

The 24-year-old man, from Bournemouth, is thought to have known Mr Bentley, Dorset Police said.

A cordon remains in place at the pond as searches and examinations continue.

"We made an arrest to assist us with gathering as much information as we can, while providing legal protection to the individual, and he has been released on conditional bail as we carry out further investigative activity," Det Ch Insp Neil Third said.

"I would like to reiterate my plea to anyone with information about the disappearance of Richard Bentley to please contact Dorset Police.

"Any detail, no matter how small, may help us in piecing together the circumstances of his sad death."

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