Seven teens who allegedly took part in killing disabled man, escape first-degree murder charges

Six young men and a female friend, who allegedly took part in killing a disabled man in May, will not face a premeditated murder charge, as petitioned by the family of the victim and the public.

Public prosecutors have agreed to charge the youths with second-degree murder and possession of knives, instead of the first-degree murder charge, said Somnuak Siengkong, a spokesman for the Office of the Attorney-General, yesterday.

He said the prosecutors have considered the evidence and concluded that the suspects’ action was spontaneous, according to Post Today.

The six men, aged 18 to 22, were arrested on May 1 for allegedly attacking a bread delivery man in the Chokchai 4 neighborhood. The victim, Somkiat Srichan, 36, was reportedly teased by four of the men, which led to an argument.

The four men then called two friends who arrived with knives. Together, they allegedly beat and stabbed Somkiat, according to an eyewitness.

Somkiat died later at the hospital.

A video of the incident circulated online and sparked anger amongst the public.

The suspects are brothers Arin and Peerapol Yodponganan, 20 and 21 respectively, Monmanat Sangpho, 22, and Mek Polkraisorn, 19, Akkaradet Thatsana, 22, and an 18-year-old boy, whose identity was withheld.

Natnicha Ritlamlert, the 19-year-old girlfriend of one of the six suspects, turned herself in days later after a warrant was issued for her arrest. A witness said she cheered on the six assailants and yelled “Kill him!”

The family and supporters of the victim petitioned Chokchai police investigators to bring a premeditated murder charge against the suspect. The charge is punishable only with death, according to Thai law.

With a second-degree murder charge, the suspects could face a maximum punishment of the death penalty, but lighter penalties are possible, ranging from 15 years to life imprisonment, Bangkok Post reported.

Prosecutors will indict the suspects tomorrow.

Related:

‘Kill him!’: Teen girlfriend who cheered on suspected killers of disabled man faces criminal charge

Six men arrested for beating, stabbing disabled man to death in Chokchai 4

 



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