Violent Gang Member Denied Parole

California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Inmate Yai Phanchanh, 39 years old of Santa Rosa, will remain incarcerated at this time following a parole hearing held this morning at California State Prison, Solano. This was Phanchanh’s first parole hearing following his 2003 conviction for second-degree murder with a firearm enhancement arising out of a gang-related shooting that occurred in Rohnert Park.

On May 25, 2003, members of the Asian Boyz gang arrived at Sunrise Park in Rohnert Park, where rival gang members were gathered playing basketball. A fight broke out between the groups, during which gang members yelled rival gang slogans and initiated violence against the victims. During the altercation, Phanchanh pulled out a 9mm handgun and fired at multiple victims. One round struck 18-year-old Roeun Klaot in the torso, killing him. Other individuals at the park fled the scene in fear as the shooting occurred.

Wednesday’s hearing was held via video conference before the California Board of Parole Hearings to determine whether Phanchanh currently remains an unreasonable risk of danger to public safety or should be released back into the community on parole. During the hearing the Board reviewed prison records, psychiatric evaluations, institutional disciplinary history, parole plans, and heard testimony and argument regarding the inmate’s suitability for release.

Additional evidence presented during the hearing included the inmate’s violent conduct while incarcerated, including a separate in-custody conviction for assault by a prisoner. After considering the evidence and argument presented, the Board denied parole and concluded that Phanchanh currently remains unsuitable for release.

Deputy District Attorney Jason Rifkind appeared on behalf of the Sonoma County District Attorney’s Office at the hearing in opposition to Phanchanh’s release on parole.

Contact Information