Police surrounded Magistrates' Court yesterday morning as a Smith's parish man was charged with the premeditated murder of Troy (Yankee) Rawlins.

David Cox, 31, of Club Road, was charged with the premeditated murder of Mr. Rawlins, and using a firearm to commit murder.

Mr. Rawlins, 47, was shot in the entrance of the Spinning Wheel nightclub on Court Street on August 9.

The well-known Court Street resident and businessman was pronounced dead a short time later.

Dozens of uniformed and armed Police officers stood outside Magistrates' Court yesterday in advance of Cox's appearance, while a half-dozen officers were present inside the courtroom.

A portion of Reid Street was briefly closed off so that Cox could be transported to and from the building.

Under the heightened security only Police, journalists and court officials were allowed into the courtroom, with one man being escorted out by Police before the start of proceedings.

Wearing a blue shirt with a silver design, blue jeans and socks with rubber sandals, Cox remained silent as the charges were read out.

Because the Supreme Court must hear the charges, Cox was not required to plea.

Senior Magistrate Archibald Warner ordered Cox to be held in remand until September 7, when he is expected to return for the matter to be mentioned.

Attorney Craig Attridge represented Cox in court. Cindy Clarke was Crown counsel.