California monk charged in stabbing of fellow monk
OAKLAND -- Authorities say a Buddhist monk has been charged with attempted murder in the stabbing of another monk in an Oakland monastery.
The Oakland Tribune reported Tuesday that authorities said 30-year-old Sokphanna Phen acknowledged stabbing 66-year-old Mahamonirath Pinn in the face and head with two kitchen knives at an East Oakland monastery on June 16.
Pinn was being treated at an Oakland hospital. Phen initially fled the monastery, called The Branch of International Community of Khmer Buddhist Monks Center, but was arrested at a relative's home in Castro Valley, Calif., according to the Tribune.
Officer Bradley Miller said Phen told police he was angry with the head monk for his disciplinary tactics.
Police say Phen has also been identified by the victim.
Phen was being held without bail. Oakland police were not immediately available for comment on whether Phen has an attorney. The Alameda County Public Defender's Office says it's representing Phen and declined further comment.