ELKINS, W.Va. — A case involving a Japanese restaurant employee accused of stabbing a coworker is set to move forward to a grand jury after the defendant’s preliminary hearing was waived on Monday. Shi Span Pink, 48, faces charges of malicious assault and malicious wounding following an incident at Sakura Japanese Restaurant on August 15.
During the proceedings in Randolph County Magistrate Court, Pink’s attorney, Jacob Rosnick from Morgantown, sought a modification of Pink’s bond from the current cash-only requirement of $15,000 to a more flexible cash or surety bond. Rosnick argued that his client has not been involved in any criminal activity since moving to the United States seven years ago and that he is unable to pay the bond as it stands.
Magistrate Ben Shepler agreed to alter the bond conditions, allowing for property to be included as collateral, but reaffirmed a strict no-contact order with the alleged victim, Shu Shuo Chen, 56. An online translator facilitated communication during the court appearance, as Pink does not speak English.
The incident in question unfolded around 1:30 p.m. when a confrontation occurred between Pink and another restaurant employee, Xue Ying Xheng. According to police reports, a witness claimed that Pink struck Xheng with spatulas before grabbing a knife and injuring Chen, who attempted to intervene.
Trooper H.J. Bonetti, of the West Virginia State Police, reported observing a six-inch laceration on Chen’s face and noted a similar injury on Pink’s finger. Officers collected both the knife and other evidence from the scene. Emergency responders transported both Pink and Chen to Davis Medical Center for treatment of what were described as non-life-threatening injuries.
The altercation was interrupted by several off-duty police officers who were dining at the restaurant at the time. Investigators from the West Virginia State Police, the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, and the Elkins City Police Department were all present at the incident scene.
With the case now heading to the grand jury, more developments are anticipated in the coming weeks.
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