PHUKET, Thailand – The Region 8 Appeals Court overturned a lower court’s ruling and sentenced Swiss national David to one month in prison without suspension for assaulting Dr. Tharndao (“Dr. Pai”), deeming it a serious offense under Section 391 of the Thai Criminal Code. However, the defendant had already left Thailand prior to the ruling.
The case stems from a February 24, 2024 incident at a luxury villa near Yamu Beach in Phuket’s Pa Khlok subdistrict, where Dr. Tharndao, a Thai physician, was sitting with friends when David allegedly kicked her in the back. The alleged assault was reported immediately to security personnel and police, and medical reports confirmed her injuries.
Initially, on September 3, 2024, Phuket Provincial Court acquitted David, citing reasonable doubt. Dr. Tharndao’s legal team, led by attorney Nipit Intarasombat, appealed the verdict.
The appeals court, however, accepted the evidence presented by prosecutors and the victim, stating that David’s aggressive behavior and use of force were inconsistent with his claims of innocence. The court also noted that David could have asked the women to leave the area without resorting to violence or hostile language.
David was absent from the hearing, sending a legal representative instead. An arrest warrant was issued on April 21, 2025, after it was confirmed that he had left the country before April 20. If he wishes to file a final appeal with the Supreme Court, he must return to Thailand in person, as legal representation alone is not sufficient.
Following the verdict, Dr. Tharndao expressed relief, stating that she now felt a sense of justice after initially believing the system had failed her. She thanked her lawyer, the people of Phuket, and all Thai citizens who had shown support throughout the ordeal. (TNA)
