British Couple’s Thai Nightmare: From Assault Victims to Legal Trouble

Des and Mary Byrne, an elderly British couple in Thailand, face imprisonment despite being victims of a violent assault. Their dreams of retirement have turned into a nightmare as they encounter legal troubles after reporting the attack. Their family seeks intervention from the British government, hoping to clear their names amid this distressing situation.

An elderly British couple is facing imprisonment in Thailand despite being victims of a brutal assault, as seen on CCTV. Des and Mary Byrne, originally from Middlesbrough, intended to enjoy a peaceful retirement on the “Thai Riviera.” However, a land dispute and a savage attack have turned their lives upside down.

The couple relocated to Thailand in 2020 after working diligently to build their dream villa. Their nightmare began in December 2023 when they encountered a hostile couple in their garden. According to 77-year-old Des, they found individuals reportedly trained in Thai boxing vandalizing their plants.

When the Byrnes confronted the intruders, Des was brutally attacked, suffering a brutal assault that left him unconscious. His wife, 69-year-old Mary, endured severe injuries, including kicks and punches, resulting in her reduced heart function. Initially, their attackers were arrested but later pleaded guilty and agreed to pay compensation.

Unexpectedly, the couple became entangled in legal troubles when police raided their home, arresting them on countercharges of causing minor injuries and mental anguish. Des and Mary, now facing a court date on March 12, fear the possibility of imprisonment. Mary expressed, “We’re trapped here, prisoners without anyone able to help.”

Des corroborated his wife’s feelings, stating that the police showed no interest in their plight. Family members, including Mary’s brother Tim Maley, have sought intervention from the British government, appealing to prominent politicians, including David Cameron and David Lammy, in hopes of securing assistance.

The Byrnes are now in a precarious situation, having exhausted their funds to clear their names, even selling their villa. Their family in the UK experiences distress over their predicament, recognizing the need for significant governmental support. The couple’s once idyllic dreams have tragically transformed into an unending nightmare.

In summary, the plight of the elderly British couple, Des and Mary Byrne, highlights the unfortunate circumstances following a brutal assault in Thailand. Initially victims, they now face legal challenges with the looming threat of imprisonment. Their families are advocating for intervention from the British government, yet the situation remains dire as the couple seeks justice while grappling with the consequences of a devastating incident.

Original Source: thethaiger.com