Dean Johnstone Pleads Guilty to the Murder of Karen Youdell

Dean Johnstone, 43, has pleaded guilty to the murder of 50-year-old mum-of-four Karen Youdell. The incident took place on Rose Bank Road, Newton Heath, on July 23, 2023, leading to her death on May 8, 2023.

Johnstone, who has no fixed address, appeared at Manchester Crown Court on Wednesday, April 2, and entered a guilty plea during the brief hearing.

A trial date has been scheduled for April 28 for three other individuals accused of perverting the course of justice. These defendants include Yvonne Johnstone, 45, of Amos Street, Moston; and Glenn Nelson, 39, of Scotland Hall Road, Newton Heath, both of whom have pleaded not guilty.

Lisa Johnstone, 43, also of Scotland Hall Road, Newton Heath, did not attend the recent hearing but has previously entered a not guilty plea to the same charge.

All three co-defendants have been granted bail in anticipation of the trial, with Lisa Johnstone required to attend a separate hearing on April 7.

Dean Johnstone, meanwhile, has been remanded in custody and will face sentencing following the conclusion of the trial.