CHIANG MAI: The former abbot of a prominent temple in Hang Dong District has been defrocked and charged with four counts following a serious road accident. The incident involved a collision with the Director of the Lamphun Corrections Department, resulting in severe injuries. According to Thai News Agency, the charges were filed against Phra Yothin, 47, who was at the helm of a black pickup truck that crashed into a blue car driven by Mr. Phongsakorn, the director of Lamphun Central Prison. The collision occurred at the entrance to Wat Prasat Tham on the Chiang Mai-Hang Dong Road, captured by CCTV footage. Mr. Phongsakorn suffered serious injuries, while Phra Yothin's blood alcohol level was recorded at 155 milligrams percent. Earlier today, Phra Yothin presented himself at Hang Dong Police Station to acknowledge the charges. He confessed to drinking before the incident and driving back to the temple due to a lack of available disciples to assist him. Phra Yothin refrained from discussing the accident's spe cifics, citing the police records. He has since resigned from his abbot position and did not attempt to escape the scene, opting instead to receive medical treatment. Mrs. Aree Panchan, Director of the Chiang Mai Office of Buddhism, disclosed that the Chiang Mai Sangha has decided to disrobe Phra Yothin due to his conduct, which has tarnished Buddhism's image. The disrobing order was issued today, and Phra Yothin consented to the ritual at Wat Kamphaeng Ngam with the deputy abbot of Hang Dong District overseeing the procedure. Pol. Col. Wirwin Saemsrithanachai, Superintendent of Hang Dong Police Station, stated that legal proceedings are underway as per standard protocol. Mr. Phongsakon remains hospitalized, and the police are committed to ensuring justice for all involved parties. The temple, where Phra Yothin served as abbot, currently remains quiet. Mr. Thawee Khampa, the village headman, reported that villagers had previously lodged complaints about the monk's behavior, though no evidence surfaced unti l this incident. The community is split on the matter, with some supporting the monk's tenure and others advocating for his disrobing. The temple committee has initiated a review of the temple's assets, which amount to over a hundred thousand baht.
