Prosecutors to decide on Red Bull heir indictment

Prosecutors will today decide whether to indict Red Bull heir Vorayudh “Boss” Yoovidhya for his alleged role in a hitand-run incident which killed a Thong Lor policeman five years ago.

Achawin Boonthamcharoen, a deputy superintendent for investigation at Thong Lor station, yesterday said Mr Vorayudh, 31, is scheduled to meet prosecutors today to hear whether he will be prosecuted over the case, adding he can authorise his lawyer to represent him.

Pol Lt Col Achawin said if Mr Vorayudh later fails to meet authorities to stand trial if prosecutors indict him, a warrant for his arrest will be issued.

The officer, however, said the case would be closed if prosecutors decide not to indict the suspect, insisting police have investigated all aspects of the case.

An Associated Press report has found Mr Vorayudh has kept up his travels and luxury lifestyle at home and abroad since the probe began, while managing to avoid meeting police and prosecutors. Police say he was not banned from travelling abroad and there is no arrest warrant out for him. He was earlier released as authorities were unable to specify when he would be indicted, Pol Lt Col Achawin said.

Mr Vorayudh has repeatedly failed to report to police and prosecutors to acknowledge the charges, citing illness and business overseas.

His lawyers have also petitioned prosecutors several times seeking fairness in the case, dragging out the process for almost five years.

Pol Lt Col Achawin said the statute of limitations on his charges of failing to help a crash victim and leaving a crash scene will expire later this year.

Meanwhile, deputy police spokesman Krisana Patanacharoen yesterday said Mr Vorayudh initially faced five charges: reckless driving causing death with a 15-year statute of limitations, failing to help a crash victim and leaving the scene, driving under the influence of alcohol causing death, speeding, as well as reckless driving causing damage to the property of others.