The question was asked as Mohammed Reveshi was cross examined during the ongoing murder trial at Preston Crown Court.

He denies claims he got rid of the evidence after business partner Iyad Albattikhi, 30, of Dickson Road, Blackpool, murdered former St George's High School pupil Charlene.

Both men deny the charges.

Flat

Police set up a month-long bugging operation at Reveshi's flat in Hornby Road, central Blackpool in March 2005.

Tim Holroyd QC, prosecuting, said the takeaway boss had broke down on tape after the pressure of the police investigation became too much.

He said: "You cried because of what the police investigation would find."

Reveshi, 50, replied: "I'm a human being. I coped well under the circumstances. People end up in hospital having a nervous breakdown.

"I cried once, is that a sign of guilt?

"To cry is not a crime. I cried because I couldn't cope that day."

Mr Holroyd said: "You cried because you feared one day the truth would come out."

Reveshi said: "There's nothing to come out."

Mr Holroyd added: "You helped Mr Albattikhi dispose of the body."

Reveshi said: "You're wrong again, as usual."

Charlene, of Buchanan Street, central Blackpool, was only 14 when she vanished in November 2003.

(Proceeding)

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