Middlesbrough Couple Relieved to Receive Fines Instead of Jail Time in Thailand
Mary and Desmond Byrne, a couple from Middlesbrough, were attacked by neighbors in Thailand and initially faced imprisonment. They received fines instead, which brought them relief. The couple’s plight attracted significant media attention and support from their community. Despite this positive outcome, they remain anxious about potential appeals from the attackers.
A couple, Mary Byrne, 69, and Desmond Byrne, 77, who emigrated from Middlesbrough to Thailand, faced the prospect of imprisonment after being assaulted by neighbors. Instead, they were “elated” to receive fines following a court ruling. The Byrnes reported being brutally attacked over a conflict regarding their garden, claiming they were “punched and kicked” by neighboring Thai kickboxers. Both received minor fines of around £200 each from the judge, which they viewed as a favorable outcome given their situation.
Tim Maley, Mrs. Byrne’s brother, revealed the couple had been informed that their passports would be returned, though he noted that they would not celebrate until they were safely en route back to the United Kingdom. The Byrnes’ troubles began after a violent episode in December 2023, which was captured on CCTV, leading to their unjust prosecution. Mr. Maley expressed concern that the attackers might appeal the court’s decision.
Mrs. Byrne recounted the incident, indicating that the physical harm inflicted was exaggerated. She insisted her husband acted defensively during the altercation, while Luke Myer, their former MP, worked diligently to advocate for the couple’s case with the Foreign Office. Local media attention and support from the Teesside community played a crucial role in bringing their ordeal to light.
Despite the couple’s ordeal, there remains anxiety regarding potential repercussions from the court, and they are understandably apprehensive about their future in Thailand. Both the Foreign Office and their family continue to monitor the situation closely as the couple looks forward to returning home.
Mr. Maley emphasized the importance of local support, noting, “That help has come from the local area and rippled out and washed over the world – the magic bullet we needed.”
In conclusion, Mary and Desmond Byrne, facing the threat of prison in Thailand following an altercation with neighbors, received fines instead and expressed relief at the outcome. The couple’s situation garnered significant media attention and community support, emphasizing the impact of local advocacy. While they await the return of their passports and a safe journey back to the UK, there remains an undercurrent of anxiety regarding potential appeals from the opposing party.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
