British Pensioners Wrongfully Convicted After Violent Assault in Thailand

Des and Mary Byrne, British pensioners in Thailand, were wrongfully convicted of assault despite being attacked, with CCTV evidence supporting their claims. The couple received a 20-day suspended sentence but avoided jail. After paying a fine, they can retrieve their passports and return to the UK, relieved after their troubling ordeal. Their situation garnered political support in the UK amidst their foreign legal struggle.

Two British pensioners residing in Thailand, Des and Mary Byrne, have been convicted of assault despite being victims of an attack, as confirmed by CCTV footage. The couple, hailing from Middlesbrough, received a 20-day suspended sentence and were granted probation, allowing them to avoid imprisonment. Subsequently, they will retrieve their passports after settling a £400 fine, marking the end of this troubling episode and enabling their return to the UK.

The couple expressed relief, stating, “We are okay – despite being found guilty. Tomorrow we can pick up our passports. We are extremely relieved. Thank you for all the love and support.” The Byrnes faced prolonged distress, with Mary suffering serious injuries such as a broken nose, brain bleeding, and rhythm issues following an abrupt confrontation over a planning dispute regarding their property.

During the vicious attack, Des was rendered unconscious after sustaining 22 blows to the head. Initially, the assailants, who were in their forties and trained in kickboxing, were found guilty of the assault and mandated to pay compensation. However, the Byrnes were later charged with causing their attackers ‘superficial injuries and mental anguish’ after refusing to comply with demands for a bribe.

The Byrnes shifted to Thailand seeking a peaceful retirement in 2021 but encountered severe distress when their neighbors attempted to take control of their access road amidst ongoing construction. Following skirmishes over property rights, tensions intensified leading to the violent incident. The ordeal prompted frantic family members in the UK to rally support from politicians, including Labour MP Rupa Huq, in an effort to assist the distressed couple.

The case of Des and Mary Byrne highlights the potential complexities and challenges faced by expatriates embroiled in legal disputes abroad. Despite overwhelming evidence supporting their victimization, the Byrnes were wrongfully convicted, demonstrating significant flaws within the judicial system they encountered. Now, with their legal turmoil behind them, they are hopeful to resume their lives in the UK and reflect on their experience with the support of their family and community.

Original Source: www.thesun.co.uk