Thursday 23 January 2025, 11.46 a.m.
Most urgent! ‘Somrak’ jailed for 2 years, 13 months, 20 days for attempted rape of a 17-year-old girl
23 January 2025 Khon Kaen Provincial Court The verdict in the case was read by the prosecutor. The plaintiff filed a lawsuit against Mr. Somrak Khamsing, a former Olympic gold medal hero boxer. And Mr. Pichet or “Pecko”, a close friend of Mr. Somrak, is the first and second defendant in the charge of conspiring to take a minor over 15 years of age away from his parents, guardian or caretaker for indecency and the minor was willing to go along with it. , jointly taking a person over 15 years of age but not over 18 years of age for indecency Even if that person consents, attempting to rape another person by using force by another person is in a state of being unable to resist. and committing an indecent act against a person over 15 years of age by using physical force where that person is in a state of being unable to resist. After Mr. Somrak acted indecently and sexually assaulted a 17-year-old girl known to her at an entertainment venue on December 10, 2023.
The court considers the plaintiff’s evidence. There is weight to be heard. The injured person testified according to the facts. which is difficult to establish the connection If there is no actual incident That is shameful. I believe there is no hypocrisy. Bring a lie which may be prosecuted later Consistent with the results of the autopsy of the wound Traces of violence found around the breast from the use of pressure It’s not an ordinary catch. Including the lower corner of the vulva. The victim testified that the first defendant tried to rape her by using force. But it didn’t come to fruition. Because of struggling and resisting In addition, the first defendant’s penis was not erect, so he tried to rub the outside.
The defendant’s defense is that The victim consents. Contrary to the testimony, surrounding witnesses, including the injury, would not have occurred. If the victim agrees The way the injured person followed That doesn’t mean will consent to have sex And there was no mention of prostitution. Investigation has not yet found that Is there any claim to receive benefits? So there is no weight to listen to. and can refute the prosecution’s witnesses
Sentenced to imprisonment for a total of 4 years and 8 months. The defendant gave evidence that was beneficial to the consideration. The sentence was reduced by 1/3, remaining in prison for 2 years, 13 months, 10 days, and ordered to pay compensation of 50,000 baht to the relatives and 120,000 baht to the injured person, along with interest of 5 percent per year from committed a violation. As for the second defendant, the case was dismissed.
After learning of the verdict, Mr. Somrak could still smile, saying simply that he had to continue fighting, as was Mr. Ittisak Atthakornwikrom, a lawyer, who stated that there were still many facts that needed to be further determined.
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Headline:
Expert insights on the ‘Somrak’ Rape Trial Verdict: A Conversation with Dr. Papatsorn Daramudaridam, Specialist in Sexual Assault Laws
Introduction:
Following the recent verdict in the ‘Somrak’ rape case, where former Olympic hero boxer Somrak Khamsing was sentenced for attempting to rape a 17-year-old girl, World-Today-News.com sat down with Dr. Papatsorn Daramudaridam, a prominent legal specialist in sexual assault and consent laws, to discuss the implications of the trial and its impact on Thailand’s justice system.
Somrak’sConviction and Sentence
Table of Contents
Senior Editor (SE): dr. Papatsorn, Somrak was convicted for attempted rape and other charges. How notable is this verdict?
Dr. Papatsorn Daramudaridam (PD): The meaning of this verdict lies in the clear message it sends regarding the importance of consent and the zero tolerance for sexual violence in Thailand. The court’s ruling demonstrates that even prominent figures are not above the law.
SE: Some argue that the sentence was too lenient. How do you respond to that?
PD: While every case is unique, and sentences are decided based on specific circumstances, it’s crucial to consider that Somrak’s sentence was reduced by a third due to his cooperation. Moreover, it’s essential to factor in the compensation he was ordered to pay, which can also be seen as a form of punishment.
The Role of Inconsistencies in Defendant’s Testimony
SE:The defense argued that the victim consented, but the court seemed to place little weight on this argument. Why was that?
PD: The court likely placed little weight on the defense’s argument due to inherent inconsistencies and contradictions in their testimony. The evidence presented, such as the victim’s injuries and her consistent account of events, further convinced the court of her truthfulness.
Lessons Learned and Moving Forward
SE:What lessons can be drawn from the Somrak trial for future cases and offenders?
PD: This case underscores the importance of consent, respect for individuals’ bodily autonomy, and the consequences when these principles are violated. It also sends a strong warning that perpetrators, regardless of their status or influence, will be held accountable.
SE:Thank you, Dr. Papatsorn, for sharing your expert insights on this matter.
PD: My pleasure. it’s crucial to keep these conversations going to promote a safer and more respectful society.
