First-degree premeditated murder

St. Joseph County Prosecutor John McDonough Thursday morning signed a two-count complaint charging Portage resident Andy Brown with first-degree premeditated murder and felony firearm.

The charge is in connection with the Oct. 2 shooting death of Sturgis accountant David Locey at Locey’s Sherman Township office.

Brown, 36, was already in custody on a charge of embezzlement. McDonough said the embezzlement charges have been dismissed, as it was determined further investigation is necessary before that case proceeds to trial.

Brown formerly worked under the 70-year-old Locey but was let go after the embezzlement charges were brought to light.

A preliminary exam has been scheduled to take place Oct. 31 in St. Joseph County District Court.

Brown remains in jail and Judge Jeff Middleton set bond at $2 million during arraignment.