Three people have been charged with murder in connection with the death of a man whose body was found in a Glenrothes flat.
The body of 45-year-old Robert Shankland was discovered at an address in Brodie Court in the Stenton area of the town on Wednesday.
Paris Green (otherwise known as Peter Laing), 21, Kevin McDonagh, 23, and Dean Smith, 19, all of no fixed abode, appeared in private on a petition alleging murder before Sheriff Grant McCulloch at Kirkcaldy.
All three made no plea or declaration and were committed for further examination and remanded in custody until their next appearance on April 5.
A police spokesman confirmed the three individuals had been charged in connection with Mr Shankland’s death.
Mr Shankland’s grieving family were too upset to speak to the press, requesting that their privacy be respected, but they issued a short statement describing him as a “much loved son, who will be sorely missed by all who knew him and a caring person who always had time for others.”
Neighbours at Brodie Court said there had been a high police presence in the street since Wednesday evening, with officers making door-to-door inquiries.
Chief Inspector Derek McEwan said investigations were continuing.
“Officers from the specialist crime division are assisting with this process, which may continue for several days. I would like to assure the communities of Glenrothes that this incident appears to be an isolated one but, in any case, there will be an increased police presence in the Stenton area of Glenrothes for several days to come.”
Anyone who lives in Brodie Court or the surrounding streets, who may have seen or heard anything suspicious, is asked to contact the police on their non-emergency number of 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.