Bangkok: The Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct has sentenced Ms. Krisanong Suwanwong to three years in prison for acting as a middleman and demanding benefits from Mr. Woraratphon Worathawarakul, also known as Boss Paul. The sentence was reduced to two years without probation as the extortion charge was dismissed.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Witoon Kaengngan, the lawyer representing Boss Paul, disclosed that the public prosecutor had filed a lawsuit against Ms. Krisanong for extorting Boss Paul. The court found her guilty of acting as a middleman in demanding benefits, leading to the initial three-year sentence. However, due to her cooperation and provision of useful information, the sentence was reduced. The court dismissed the extortion charge, citing a lack of connection between the threatening phone call and the payment, which occurred a significant time apart.
Attorney Witoon further explained that the court's decision to dismiss the extortion charge was based on the time gap between the alleged threat and payment, which suggested that Boss Paul was unlikely to have been intimidated. This decision allows for the possibility of an appeal by the public prosecutor.
When questioned about Ms. Krisanong's reaction to the verdict, Attorney Witoon noted that she appeared confident of a favorable outcome before the court's decision. However, upon receiving the prison sentence, she expressed some regret. Boss Paul's response to the verdict was one of shock, as conveyed by his lawyer, who informed his secretary of the court's decision. Boss Paul was reportedly indifferent to the outcome.