Moorpark Man Ordered To Stand Trial In Death Of Pro-Israeli Demonstrator

Wednesday May 15, 2024

     Update-A judge has ordered a Moorpark man to stand trial in connection with the death of a pro-Israel supporter during competing demonstrations in Thousand Oaks last year over the Israel-Hamas war.

     51-year-old Loay Alnaji of Moorpark has pleaded not guilty to involuntary manslaughter by an unlawful act and battery with serious bodily injury in connection with the death of 69-year-old Paul Kessler of Thousand Oaks.

     He also denied two special allegations that they were serious felonies that would make him eligible for prison if convicted.  

    The judge's decision that there was enough evidence for Alnaji to stand trial came following a two-day preliminary hearing.

     Prosecutors presented evidence and testimony from witnesses and law enforcement regarding the actions of both men leading up to Kessler falling and hitting his head on the sidewalk.

     The Medical Examiner determined that was the cause of his death.

     Prosecutors say Alnaji was responsible for what happened, but defense attorneys have claimed he is not.

     Alnaji remains free on bail and is due back in court on June 10th to have a trial date set.