TWO of the suspects in the Stephen Lawrence murder inquiry have appeared in court charged with racially harassing a police officer.

David Norris and Neil Acourt arrived late for their appearance at Woolwich Magistrates' Court, last Wednesday.

Norris, 24, wearing a red and blue jumper with a white shirt and Acourt, 25, wearing a white shirt and grey jumper, both tried to cover their faces on appearing at court.

They are accused of racially aggravated harassment of an off-duty detective, in Well Hall Road, on May 11.

Both spoke to confirm their not guilty pleas to the charge.

District judge Howard Riddle granted the pair unconditional bail but stressed the importance of them being on time at their next appearance.

The case was adjourned to Belmarsh Magistrates' Court at 10am today (Wednesday, December 12).

December 10, 2001 13:08