SALINAS, Calif. -- The Carmel Valley man accused of killing his neighbors during an altercation over a boulder took the stand in his defense Thursday morning.

John Kenney was called to the witness stand shortly before noon after the prosecution rested its case.

Kenney testified that he placed the boulder that instigated the fatal confrontation only after being advised to do so by two attorneys.

Kenney said he was concerned about his safety at the time the boulder was placed behind a Volkswagen Bus owned by Mel and Elizabeth Grimes and asked for several people to be present for his protection.

Mel and Elizabeth Grimes were found shot to death a few hours after the boulder was placed.

Kenney also testified that his private security consultant, Michael Morrison, and his lawyer were at his home when the boulder was delivered, but both had to leave before the Grimeses came home.

Kenney is expected to remain on the stand after the noon lunch break.