Alleged gang leader could get 12 years for role in mass killing that left 6 dead

VANCOUVER – The Crown and defence at a high-profile murder trial in Vancouver are calling for a founder of the Red Scorpions gang to receive a 12-year sentence, with just over three years left to serve.

Quang Vinh Thang (Michael) Le pleaded guilty last month to conspiracy to commit murder for his role in a mass killing that left six dead, including two bystanders.

Crown counsel Peter Juk says prosecutors and the defence have submitted a joint proposal for a 12-year sentence, but after credit for time served, that would leave Le with a remaining sentence of three years and one month.

The six bodies were found in October 2007 in a highrise condominium in Surrey, B.C., in what the Crown has alleged was an execution of a rival drug trafficker.

The Crown told the trial the other five victims — including 55-year-old fireplace repairman Ed Schellenberg and 22-year-old building resident Chris Mohan — where killed to eliminate potential witnesses.

Le had been standing trial since late September along with Matthew Johnston and Cody Haevischer, whose trial is continuing.

Another person, whose name can’t be published, pleaded guilty in 2009, while alleged gang leader Jamie Bacon is expected to stand trial next year.