British Expat Pensioners Wrongfully Convicted in Thailand After Assault

Des and Mary Byrne, British expatriates in Thailand, were found guilty of assault after being viciously attacked by their kickboxing neighbors. The couple suffered serious injuries during a conflict over land access. Despite clear evidence of their victimization, they were sentenced to a suspended penalty. They now plan to return home after enduring significant legal battles and financial strain.

An elderly British couple residing in Thailand, 77-year-old Des Byrne and his 69-year-old wife Mary, were found guilty of assault, despite being brutally attacked by their younger kickboxing neighbors. The incident stemmed from a dispute over land access, leaving the couple severely injured, with Mr. Byrne knocked unconscious and Mrs. Byrne suffering from a broken nose and a brain injury.

Despite clear CCTV evidence capturing them as victims, the court ruled against the Byrnes, resulting in a 20-day suspended sentence and a £400 fine. Their neighbors, initially denying any wrongdoing, later pleaded guilty and were ordered to compensate the Byrnes. The couple feared imprisonment but expressed relief at avoiding jail time.

The dispute escalated when the Byrnes returned home to find their neighbors conducting unauthorized construction work on their property. Their efforts to defend their home led to a physical altercation, culminating in the attack that left them battered. After spending all of their savings on legal defenses, they plan to return to Britain, feeling relieved yet understandably shaken.

The case of Des and Mary Byrne highlights the troubling legal challenges faced by expatriates in Thailand, especially when caught in violent disputes. Despite being victims, they were wrongfully convicted, raising concerns about the legal protections available for foreigners. Their experience underscores the complexities involved in international legal matters and the risks accompanying expatriate life.

Original Source: www.dailymail.co.uk