Chonburi, Thailand – A British couple in Thailand is facing a legal ordeal after a violent altercation with their neighbors led to unexpected charges being pressed against them. Mary Byrne, 69, and her husband, Desmond, 77, who relocated from Middlesbrough in 2021, found themselves entangled in a dispute over property access and a small garden with a younger couple.
The Byrnes were victimized in December 2023 when a heated conflict erupted in their garden, resulting in a brutal assault captured on CCTV footage. They were reportedly kicked and punched during the incident. Despite their neighbors being initially prosecuted for the assault, the tables turned as Mr. and Mrs. Byrne now find themselves implicated and potentially facing unfavorable outcomes, according to a warning from the British Embassy.
Mrs. Byrne vividly recounted the attack, describing their neighbors as Thai kickboxers. She detailed the harrowing experience, stating, “The woman continually stamped on my head while her husband was ferociously thumped 22 times.” The Byrnes maintain that their actions were in self-defense, with Mr. Byrne allegedly raising his leg defensively.
Although the younger couple eventually admitted guilt after initially denying the charges, the situation took a surprising turn for the Byrnes when they were suddenly summoned to a police station in May of the following year. There, they were informed of allegations of causing injury to their neighbors, a revelation that left them both shocked and distressed.
As the legal proceedings continue, the Byrnes have expressed feelings of isolation and entrapment, unable to leave the country as they await their court date. Their former Member of Parliament, Luke Myer, has been actively involved in advocating for their case with the Foreign Office, emphasizing the importance of ensuring fair treatment and their eventual return home.
Despite the mounting uncertainty, the couple remains steadfast in their belief of their innocence, stating, “We are not pessimistic; we both know we’ve done nothing wrong. But we have to prepare for whatever they’re going to do to us.” The Foreign Office has confirmed its support for the Byrnes, affirming ongoing communication with local authorities in Thailand regarding the case.