British Couple in Thailand Found Guilty of Injuring Neighbors Despite Attacks

Desmond and Mary Byrne, a British couple living in Thailand, were found guilty of injuring their neighbors despite being attacked first. They received a suspended sentence and a fine of 17,500 baht. The couple expressed distress over their legal situation, which has turned their retirement into a nightmare.

A British couple residing in Thailand faced legal consequences after being found guilty of injuring their neighbors, despite suffering from prior physical aggression themselves. The Hua Hin local court sentenced 77-year-old Desmond Byrne and 69-year-old Mary Byrne for causing minor injuries and mental distress to their neighbors. Furthermore, the court accused them of contempt for sharing details with the media during the trial, a claim they rejected.

In addition to the conviction, the Byrnes, originally from Middlesbrough, received a 20-day suspended prison sentence along with a fine of 17,500 baht (approximately US$520). They are permitted to reclaim their passports and return to the UK upon payment of the fine.

Mary Byrne expressed their ordeal, stating, “Our idyllic retirement in paradise has landed us in a living hell,” highlighting the distressing situation they have faced. The couple relocated to Thailand in 2021, purchasing a villa in Hua Hin for £200,000 (around US$258,585).

The case of Desmond and Mary Byrne underscores the complexities associated with legal disputes in foreign countries. Despite being victims of violence, the couple faced legal repercussions that led to a suspended jail term and fines. Their situation serves as a cautionary tale regarding the challenges retirees may encounter abroad, particularly in times of conflict.

Original Source: www.scmp.com