Murder suspect out of jail

BROWN COUNTY - Green Bay murder suspect Mao Xiong posted his $250 thousand cash bond and was released from the Brown County jail Saturday.

Xiong, 26,  is accused of stabbing Eric Vieau, 35,  to death in June. Brown County prosecutors say it happened after an argument at a bar on the city's east side.

Sheldon Kirchenwitz was once neighbors with Vieau.

“I miss that guy. I don't think I'll ever forget him,” said Kirchenwitz.

Kirchenwitz said coping with Vieau's death is hard enough. But now that his accused killer, Mao Xiong, has posted bond and is out of jail, it’s hard to handle.

“I can't understand it. That the bond wasn't a lot higher,” said Kirchenwitz.

A Brown County court commissioner set Xiong's bond at $250,000 cash in June.

In arguing the bond amount, prosecutors pointed to Xiong's criminal record that includes him being a registered sex offender.

Since hearing of Xiong's release, another neighbor, Mathew Daley, also believes the bond should have been set higher.

“I think it's kind of ridiculous, murder's murder. I think the bond should be higher if it's that easy to get out,” said Daley.

Police say Xiong, who is one of two people charged in Vieau's murder, fled the scene after the alleged crime. Several days later he turned himself into Minnesota authorities.

Xiong's next day in court is Monday, and some worry he won't show up.

“He did it before, and he just might do it again,” said Kirchenwitz.

“He's probably gonna bail jump and not show up, more than likely,” said Daley.

FOX 11 attempted to talk with Xiong Sunday at his house. But family members said they had no comment.

During Xiong's bond hearing, his former attorney argued Xiong was not a flight risk proven by the fact he turned himself in.

One of Xiong's neighbors says the judge probably had his reasons for setting bond, and people need to trust in the court system.

“If he did it, hopefully he'll pay the price for what he did. If that's the case, you know, he's innocent until proven guilty,” said John fix.

Vieau's family members declined to speak with FOX 11 for this story, but indicated they wouldl make a statement after Xiong's hearing.