Accused murderer John Gerard Benny Della Franca makes brief appearance in court but still yet to enter pleas

The South West farmer accused of murdering Pemberton father Tony Ditri had a brief hearing in court last week but is still yet to enter pleas to any of his charges. John Gerard Benny Della Franca, 64, is accused of killing the 40-year-old, who had last been seen at a tip bordering his property in August last year. He has also been charged with one count of possessing an unlicensed firearm and discharging a firearm to cause fear. Mr Della Franca appeared in Manjimup Magistrates Court via video link for less than one minute on the latter two charges on Thursday but was adjourned until later this year. Police allege Mr Della Franca fired the rifle on August 27 in Pemberton, the same day Mr Ditri was reported missing, while a shotgun was found later in his possession on August 29. The discharging a firearm charge relates to a Sterling .22 rifle, while his possession charge is in relation to a 12-gauge shotgun. Mr Ditri’s remains were found buried in a paddock in September. About 1000 community members turned out for his funeral the next month, where he was remembered as a family man and pillar of the Pemberton community. Mr Della Franca will next appear in court on his murder charge next Wednesday. His other two charges have been adjourned until December 8.