Five people on trial for murder of Bishop Auckland man

Lee Clarkson suffered fatal stab wounds outside his home on West Lane at about 6.30pm on Wednesday, November 29.

The 41-year-old died at the scene despite the best efforts of medical staff.

Today, four adults and a youth are appearing at Teesside Crown Court charged with his murder.

Police at the scene of the alleged murder in Bishop Auckland (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

In November, three men, aged 52, 44, and 42, and a 42-year-old woman were arrested in connection with the incident.

Lee Clarkson (Image: DURHAM CONSTABULARY)

Michael Richardson, 52, of Boddy Street, Bishop Auckland; Karl Jones, 45, of General Bucher Court, Bishop Auckland; Helen Jones, 42, of General Bucher Court, Bishop Auckland; and Craig Dent, 42, of Gray Street, Eldon Lane, were subsequently charged with murder.

All four defendants denied the charge when they appeared in court in April.

A 16-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has also been charged in connection with the alleged murder.

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Crime scene investigators working at the property in Bishop Auckland (Image: TERRY BLACKBURN)

At the last hearing, he did not appear in court and his legal representative was not asked to enter a plea to a charge of murder.

The trial, which is listed to last for five weeks, will be heard by High Court Judge Mr Justice Jacobs.

A statement issued by Mr Clarkson’s family at the time said: said: “Lee was a much-loved father, son, and brother.

“The whole family is absolutely devastated at the loss of Lee and his death has left an enormous hole in our lives.”