THE man accused of murdering Frank Betteridge has made a brief appearance in court.
Anthony Hart is also accused of fraud, using someone else's bank card and withdrawing £250 one day later.
The 38-year-old, of Hartington Road, central Stockton, has not yet entered pleas to the charges.
Judge Stephen Ashurst remanded the defendant in custody following the short hearing at Teesside Crown Court for a further hearing on a date yet to be fixed.
The 62-year-old, from South Bank, died following a reported incident at his home in Stephens Street in South Bank, Middlesbrough, on Friday, December 27.
Floral tributes outside Mr Betteridge's bungalow
Emergency services were called to the bungalow in Stephens Street at 7.55pm to reports of a fire.
Cleveland Fire Brigade confirmed a small fire was discovered in the house and a man was found dead.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here