TWO people have denied murdering a 23-year-old man with learning difficulties.
William Hughes, 21, of Washington Road, Sunderland, and a 16-year-old youth, who cannot be named, yesterday pleaded not guilty to the murder of Brent Martin.
The 16-year-old's mother is accused of washing blood stained clothes and denied a charge of perverting justice.
Mr Martin died of multiple injuries after an incident at Baxter Road, Sunderland, in August.
A 17-year-old, who is also accused of the killing, has yet to enter a plea to the charge.
The will all be tried by a jury on January 7.
The trio accused of murder were all remanded in custody.
The 47-year-old mother was granted unconditional bail.
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