Five men accused of kidnapping a trial witness, taking him to Blind Beach near Jenner and shooting him to death in 2007 will go to trial in the case, a judge ruled Friday following a six-week preliminary hearing.
Defendants Preston Khaoone, David Prak, Sarith Prak, Boonlak Chanpheng, and Tyrone Tay face charges of murder, kidnapping, and participating in a street gang. A sixth defendant, Quentin Russell, was already held over for trial to answer charges in the case.
They are charged with killing 24-year-old Vutha Au to prevent his testimony in a case in which two of Khaoone's brothers are charged with assaulting Au's brother.
On March 2, 2008, while awaiting trial in that case Au returned to Sonoma County where he was kidnapped, driven to the coast and killed.
The defendants and the defendants in the previous case are all alleged to be members of the Asian Boyz street gang.
The defendants are being held without bail and are expected to make their next court appearance Dec. 17.
- Press Democrat Staff
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