OU Graduate Paul Chambers Cleared of Charges in Thailand and Heading Home

Paul Chambers, a University of Oklahoma graduate, has been cleared of charges in Thailand for allegedly insulting the monarchy and is now returning home after a harrowing two-month ordeal. His arrest stemmed from his critical writings about the Thai military and monarchy, leading to a series of challenges, incarceration, and fears for his safety.

A University of Oklahoma graduate who faced charges in Thailand for allegedly insulting the monarchy is now finally heading home. Paul Chambers had his charges dropped and received permission to leave the country after two months of uncertainty. His troubles began on April 8, when he turned himself in after learning from authorities about an arrest warrant issued against him.

When Paul was arrested, he had no idea what the charges entailed. “He just had to appear,” said his mother, Peggy Chambers, who teaches at OU. Paul was startled to learn that the accusation against him was based on an alleged violation of Thailand’s strict lèse-majesté laws, a serious offense that punishes those who defame the monarchy.

Paul was caught completely off guard, insisting he was innocent. “I was totally flabbergasted,” he expressed, reflecting on his unexpected experience. Having lived and worked in Thailand since 1993 and married to a Thai citizen, he never thought he would face such severe consequences.

His initial days in prison were grim. The conditions were cramped, keeping him confined with 37 other inmates in a small area. He felt vulnerable due to the nature of his accusations, fearing retaliation from those who took offense at any insult to the king. “I was thinking about, ‘am I going to live through this ordeal?’” Paul shared, admitting he feared for his safety amongst the other prisoners.

Following a couple of days, Paul was released on bond but was instead fitted with an ankle monitor. He faced serious consequences under Thailand’s Computer Crime Act, which could have resulted in a lengthy prison sentence if convicted. Explaining his predicament, Paul suggested that his arrest might have been influenced by the military’s displeasure toward his critical writings on their actions and policies.

Despite the charges being dropped, Paul’s exit wasn’t immediate. He remained uncertain if he might be sent back to prison until Thai officials finally allowed him to leave, marking a relief after a prolonged and difficult period. “No one person wanted to be responsible for letting me go,” he noted, highlighting the sensitivity surrounding his case.

On his way out, he received his passport only at the airport, coinciding with his flight’s departure. The moment he boarded the plane was surreal for Paul. “It was a dream come true that I could somehow leave,” he recalled. However, his departure has significant personal ramifications.

Now, he faces a long-distance relationship with his wife still in Thailand, and his professional life there is effectively over. Paul expressed: “It’s devastating… I think the army has shot itself in the foot. I will be even more critical of the army now that this has happened.” He aims to continue shedding light on human rights violations in the region, despite his concerns for his wife’s safety.

Paul remains hesitant to return to Thailand anytime soon, fearing potential re-arrest despite his claims of innocence. He is now on his way back to Oklahoma, expressing gratitude to those who supported him throughout his ordeal, including the U.S. Ambassador and various advocacy organizations. Paul aims to use his experiences to further illuminate the political landscape in Southeast Asia.

In summary, Paul Chambers, a University of Oklahoma graduate, faced a harrowing experience in Thailand after being arrested for allegedly insulting the monarchy. His charges have been dropped, allowing him to leave the country after months of uncertainty and fear for his safety. While he can finally return home, his situation has left significant personal and professional consequences, including a long-distance relationship with his wife. Chambers plans to continue advocating for human rights, though he remains concerned about his family and future interactions with Thai authorities.

Original Source: www.fox23.com