Man denies murder of 24-year-old who was shot in Nottingham
Coel Tainton was found dead at a property in Ryeland Gardens in The Meadows area of the city in February
Last updated 6 hours ago
A man has denied murdering a “loving, caring” 24-year-old who was fatally shot in Nottingham.
Coel Tainton was found dead at a property in Ryeland Gardens in The Meadows area of the city shortly after 5.30am on February 28.
He was treated by paramedics but died a short time later and police recovered a shotgun within minutes of attending the scene.
Jack Preston, 34, was charged with his murder on March 3, Nottinghamshire Police said.
Appearing at Nottingham Crown Court via video-link from HMP Peterborough on Wednesday, Preston, who wore a white t-shirt and a green jacket for the hearing, denied Mr Tainton’s murder.
He was told he would face a three-week trial on August 24.
The defendant, of Ryeland Gardens, sat behind a table with his hands clasped for the hearing in front of Judge Nirmal Shant KC.
He spoke only to confirm his name, that he could hear the court and to enter his plea.
The judge told the defendant he must next appear in court for a pre-trial review.
She said: “Your trial is now listed on the 24th of August.
“The 10th of July is when the matter will be reviewed to make sure your trial is on track and ready.
“Your solicitors will be in contact with you to prepare a defence statement, where you say what you are going to say in your trial for your defence.
“That’s a document you really must focus on.
“I have no reason to believe you won’t come to your trial but if you refuse to come to court, the trial can take place without you being there.
“The next hearing is the 10th of July, in the meantime, you are remanded into custody, thank you very much.”
In a statement released through police after his death, Mr Tainton’s family paid tribute to their “beloved son, brother, nephew, cousin, grandson, and friend to so many”.
They said: “Coel was loving, caring, and fiercely protective of those he held close. His heart was big, generous, and full of kindness.
“He had a precious soul and a contagious laugh that could light up any room and touch everyone around him.
“He brought joy, warmth, and comfort to our lives in countless ways.
“His humour, strength, and endless love will forever remain in our hearts.
“Though words cannot express the depth of our loss, we know his love surrounds us still.
“He will be so sadly missed, deeply cherished, and loved forever.”