British Pensioners Wrongfully Convicted of Assault in Thailand Despite Evidence
Des and Mary Byrne, British pensioners, were wrongfully convicted of assault in Thailand despite being attacked by neighbors. They received a suspended sentence but no jail time, and after paying a fine, they can return to the UK. Their situation has drawn political attention as they faced significant injuries in a property dispute that turned violent.
Two British pensioners, Des and Mary Byrne, have been convicted of assault in Thailand despite clear CCTV evidence showing them as the victims of a brutal attack. The couple was involved in a driveway altercation with their neighbors, resulting in serious injuries. They avoided jail time but received a 20-day suspended sentence and open probation, allowing them to recover their passports after a £400 fine, enabling them to return to the UK.
Des, 77, and Mary, 69, expressed relief following the court’s decision, stating, “We are okay – despite being found guilty.” They emphasized the lengthy court investigation, which included an accusation of causing contempt of court due to media coverage of their case. Mary, a former NHS nurse, suffered significant injuries during the attack, leading to serious health concerns including a broken nose and bleeding on the brain.
The Byrnes had relocated to Hua Hin’s retirement villa, initially seeking a peaceful life in Thailand, but their retirement turned distressing following disputes with neighbors over property rights. The couple thwarted construction efforts on their land, escalating tensions that ultimately led to the violent confrontation with neighbors trained in kickboxing. The attackers were initially found guilty and ordered to pay compensation but later, astonishingly, the Byrnes faced prosecution.
With their situation drawing attention in the UK, family members sought political assistance. Labour MP Rupa Huq, alongside notable figures like David Lammy and Catherine West, intervened on their behalf, showcasing the case’s complexities and injustices experienced by expats.
Despite the legal troubles, the couple is now looking forward to returning home to Middlesbrough, hopeful to reclaim their life following what they termed a horrific ordeal in Thailand.
This case highlights the challenges faced by expatriates in foreign legal systems, particularly when confronted with injustice. The Byrnes, having endured a traumatic experience and legal complexities, are relieved to finally return home. Their ordeal illustrates the importance of international support for individuals facing legal troubles abroad.
Original Source: www.thesun.co.uk
