The third member in an alleged conspiracy to burn down the clubhouse at the Kings Country Club last year was named in court documents filed earlier this month. Brad Duinkerken, a 47-year-old Laton man, was described in one document as "a person committing overt acts in furtherance of the conspiracy."

Criminal complaints filed against Dave Boyd Hamilton, 41, and Alan Lejon Anderson, 46, mention Duinkerken in a short timeline of events leading up to the July 7, 2008 arson.

According to the complaint filed Oct. 8, Anderson met with a third person to discuss "burning the golf course." Hamilton then met with Duinkerken at his home and proceeded to the Kings Country Club at 10:20 p.m.

Fire investigators said the blaze was sparked at 10:30 p.m. and quickly consumed the 5,000-square-foot structure. The total destruction of the clubhouse caused an estimated $750,000 in damages.

The fire came soon after a heated debate between club members regarding the fate of the old building. The clubhouse once served as the original Hanford High School building from 1911 to 1923. Some wanted to see the structure preserved and renovated and others wanted it torn down and replaced with a more modern building.

Ultimately, club members voted for preservation, but their decision was overturned by those who set the fire.

It is not known what Duinkerken's stance was on the clubhouse renovation, as attempts to reach him for comment were unsuccessful. The Sentinel also tried to reach members of the club's board of directors, but did not get a response before this story went to print.

Anderson and Hamilton were arrested in late September on charges of arson of a structure, conspiracy to commit a crime and presenting a false or fraudulent claim for payment of insurance.

Both men are believed to be employees at Duinkerken's family-owned business, Duinkerken Farms in Laton. Hamilton reportedly worked there as a foreman, while Anderson only did occasional jobs there as a truck driver.

Anderson remains in custody in lieu of $220,000 bail. Hamilton's bail was posted by Kings County Bail Bonds soon after his arrest.

Duinkerken has not been charged in connection with the crime, though investigators said a charge is forthcoming.

"There are technical aspects that we needed to look into before we could file charges," Sheriff's Office Cmdr. Robert Thayer said on Monday. "Right now, we are seeking the prosecution of these two individuals and when the time is appropriate, our plan is to move forward on the third suspect."

It was determined during a preliminary hearing on Oct. 8 that there is enough probable cause for Anderson to stand trial for the commission of a felony. His arraignment date is set for Oct. 26.

Also present in court documents was a motion filed by attorney Steven S. Dias to suppress the testimony of Stephanie Duinkerken, Brad Duinkerken's wife, in the case. The motion cites California Evidence Code 980 to argue that she should not be called to testify against her spouse.

Sources say the Duinkerkens are estranged in their relationship and that Stephanie Duinkerken maintains an apartment in Hanford, while her husband lives in Laton.

It is not clear what connection, if any, she has to the case. The motion to suppress testimony explains that she has only had limited contact with Anderson prior to the fire.

The reporter can be reached at 583-2425.

(Oct. 20, 2009)