Trial Delayed for 2 Brothers Accused of Assaulting Umpire

A pretrial hearing for two Long Beach brothers accused of using a bat to assault a city-league umpire during a softball argument was postponed last week until Jan. 22 so lawyers can have more time to prepare for trial, Deputy City Prosecutor John Fentis said.

A new trial date will be set at that time, Fentis said. The trial was to begin Dec. 18.

Greg Sinsun, 19, and Benito Sinsun, 20, who are both charged with a misdemeanor assault with a deadly weapon, are free on $2,000 bail. The brothers, who have denied the charge, are accused of beating umpire Hal Smith during a slow-pitch game on Oct. 31. An argument allegedly erupted when Smith threw the younger brother out of the game. After an exchange of words, Smith contends, he was then struck by both Sinsuns during a melee involving several players.

Smith left the field with bruises above his right eye and a severely bruised cheekbone. Long Beach recreation officials have since banned the Sinsuns from ever playing in the city league.