An Indian-origin restaurant owner in North Carolina has been charged with attempted murder of his wife following a domestic violence incident that was reported to the police after their daughter called 911. The incident occurred earlier this month when 49-year-old Mathivanan Pothiyappan began chasing his wife on the road.
Initial Charges and Subsequent Developments
Pothiyappan was initially charged on April 4 with assault on a female, communicating threats, and misdemeanor domestic violence. However, four days later, additional charges were filed, including attempted first-degree murder. According to local reports, Pothiyappan is the owner of CholaNad Indian restaurant on West Franklin Street, which has been closed since his arrest. Pothiyappan stated to CBS17 that the restaurant would reopen soon but declined to comment on the charges against him.
Details of the Alleged Abuse
The wife told police that Pothiyappan had a history of verbal and physical abuse. She claimed that on previous occasions, he had hit her with dumbbells and burned her. On April 4, after arguing since morning, Pothiyappan threw objects at her and struck her with a bag full of medicine. He then went to the kitchen and said, "Today, I'm going to take this knife and kill you." The wife fled the home, and Pothiyappan chased her in his car, prompting their daughter to call 911.
Legal Proceedings and Bail Conditions
Pothiyappan was granted a $5,000 bond on the initial charges and was released on April 6. However, after the attempted murder charge was filed, he was rearrested and given a $100,000 bond. His pre-trial release conditions include no contact with family members involved in the incident and surrendering his passport.
About CholaNad Restaurant
CholaNad is a well-known South Indian cuisine restaurant in North Carolina. According to its website, the name CholaNad is derived from the great Chola Empire of Tamils, who were among the prime seafaring and colonizing empires from 320 BC to 1279 AD. The Cholas presented their culture and food to the countries they traded with and ruled, influencing cuisines such as Thai food, which is heavily influenced by Tamil cuisine.
