British Couple in Thailand Face Imprisonment After Neighbor Dispute

Mary Byrne and her husband are facing legal charges in Thailand stemming from a neighborhood dispute resulting in a physical attack. Although their neighbors were prosecuted, the Byrnes have been informed by the British Embassy of potential imprisonment. Support from their former MP and the Foreign Office indicates ongoing efforts to ensure fair treatment for the couple as they await court decisions.

Mary Byrne, 69, and her husband Desmond, 77, a couple from Middlesbrough who retired in Thailand, are facing potential imprisonment due to an altercation with their neighbors. They became involved in a dispute regarding access and a small garden, leading to a physical confrontation in December 2023, which was recorded on CCTV. Although their neighbors were prosecuted, the Byrnes have now been charged and warned by the British Embassy that the outcome could be unpredictable.

According to Mrs. Byrne, their neighbors are Thai kickboxers who allegedly attacked them, resulting in significant injuries. She claims, “the woman continually stamped on my head” while her husband was assaulted numerous times. Despite the physical attack, Mr. Byrne only used his leg defensively, and Mrs. Byrne asserts, “I strongly believe, 100%, it was in defence.”

Initially denying the charges, the younger couple has reportedly changed their plea to guilty. However, in May of last year, the Byrnes were summoned to a police station where they were informed they would be charged for injuring their neighbors. The couple had their fingerprints taken and passports confiscated, leaving them in a state of shock at the legal proceedings.

As they wait for a court appearance on Wednesday, the Byrnes expressed feelings of entrapment in Thailand. “We can’t get out, we can’t leave. So in one way or another, we feel trapped,” Mrs. Byrne remarked. Concerns for their case have also been raised by Luke Myer, their former Member of Parliament, who is engaging with the Foreign Office to advocate for their situation.

A spokesperson from the Foreign Office confirmed that they are assisting the couple and are in communication with Thai authorities. Mrs. Byrne mentioned, “We are not pessimistic, we both know we’ve done nothing wrong,” yet they must prepare for the judicial outcomes that may arise.

The case involving Mary and Desmond Byrne illustrates the complexities faced by foreign nationals entangled in legal challenges abroad. Their alarming situation stemming from a dispute with neighbors highlights the emotional and legal turmoil they are navigating. As they await the court’s decision, the couples’ commitment to maintaining their innocence remains steadfast. Support from the Foreign Office and advocacy efforts may play a crucial role in their case as they deal with the repercussions of this unfortunate incident.

Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk