Arrest over gay man’s disappearance
Police have charged a 45-year-old Cronulla man with the murder of 20-year-old Matthew Leveson.
Michael Peter Atkins, arrested Tuesday morning, is believed to have been Leveson’s partner at the time of the disappearance.
According to police Leveson was last seen with Atkins leaving Arq about 2am on Sunday 23 September 2007. Missing person posters seeking his whereabouts were posted along Oxford St and in the Sydney Star Observer.
While Leveson’s car was found abandoned at Waratah Oval in Sutherland several days later, his body has not been recovered and detectives believe he met with foul play.
[Tuesday’s] arrest is a significant outcome in this investigation however it will never be closed until Matthew’s body is recovered, Miranda Police Commander Mark Hiron said in a statement.
His family and friends will continue to grieve and suffer until his remains are located and my detectives will continue to work on this inquiry to bring some closure to their pain.
Leveson’s parents appealed for anyone with further information that could lead to the recovery of the body to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Leveson’s mother, Faye, wrote on Facebook that she loved and missed her son and would pursue justice for him, even if it takes my lifetime.
Atkins was refused bail on Wednesday and the case adjourned until 17 September at Central Local Court.
