Murder accused duo plead not guilty

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Lee Ross McMurdo

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Two men charged with murdering West Auckland man Lee Ross McMurdo have pleaded not guilty.

John Grant Cuthers, 28, and Andrew Parry Nicholson, 24, appeared this morning at the High Court in Auckland where they entered pleas and were remanded in custody to November 11 for a trial.

The two men were arrested after a 13-month long investigation into McMurdo's death.

McMurdo was found dead by his daughter Lateasha, 12, at his rural home, 10km south of Helensville on July 29, 2011, but it is believed he died on the morning of July 27.

The 32-year-old was last seen alive on July 26, 2011, at 1.40pm. Police have previously said they think his murder may have been an "unintended consequence" of a burglary or a debt recovery attempt.

At the time of his death McMurdo is believed to have been dealing MDVP or "bath salts" - a new party drug that has had violent side affects on some users overseas.

He had previously been charged with growing cannabis.

- © Fairfax NZ News