A man accused of murdering a four-year-old child today appeared via video link before Bradford Crown Court.

Anwar Rosser, 32, is accused of killing Riley Turner at the youngster’s home in Harewood Road, Bracken Bank, Keighley, on Sunday, January 20.

He appeared at court via video link from Wakefield Prison today.

Rosser was due to make a plea to the charge, but the case was adjourned.

The court heard that a professor appointed for the defence was working on a report about the mental health of the defendant.

Acting for Rosser, Ali Naseem Bajwa QC said: “I wouldn’t want the court to be misled that fitness to plead or stand trial are likely to be issues in this. The likely issues are the defendant’s state of mind at the time.”

A report is to be prepared by May 31, before the case is next in court in June.

Prosecuting, Paul Greaney QC said reports by an expert psychiatrist for the Crown Prosecution Service and the findings of a forensic scientist would allow a “final indictment” to be prepared.

Rosser, also of Harewood Road, Bracken Bank, spoke only to confirm his name during the 20-minute hearing before the Recorder of Bradford, Judge Roger Thomas QC. He will next appear at court on June 17 to enter pleas.

A preliminary trial date has been set for July 23. It is expected to last between eight and ten days.

Judge Thomas said that Rosser appeared via video link because of “the mechanics” of getting him to court, but said next time he wanted the defendant to appear in person.

Addressing Rosser, Judge Thomas said: “Next time you’re here in court you will be here in person and will be asked to say ‘guilty’ or ‘not guilty’ to the charge, or charges, on the indictment.”