Thailand’s First Olympic Gold Medallist Sentenced to Prison for Abduction and Attempted Rape

Background

Somluck Kamsing, a 52-year-old Thai boxer, was sentenced to just over three years in prison by a Thai court on Thursday for the abduction and attempted rape of a 17-year-old girl. Kamsing is Thailand’s first Olympic gold medallist, having won featherweight boxing gold at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta.

The Incident

The 17-year-old girl filed a complaint in December 2023 against Kamsing, alleging that he had assaulted her in a hotel in Khon Kaen, a city in the kingdom’s northeast. According to local media reports, Kamsing met the teenager at a bar, where they stayed until 3:00 am, before the incident took place. The police confirmed the reports, and Kamsing was subsequently arrested and charged with child abduction for molestation and attempted rape.

The Verdict

The Khon Kaen provincial court found Kamsing guilty of the charges and sentenced him to three years and six months in prison. However, the court granted Kamsing an appeal and bail, which was set at 300,000 baht ($9,000) while he pursues his appeal. The court also ordered Kamsing to pay $5,000 in damages to the victim.

Reaction

Kamsing has denied the allegations, claiming that the incident was consensual. However, the court found his actions to be a single offense that violates multiple laws, including attempted rape by force and taking a person over the age of 15 but not over 18 for the purpose of indecency.

Conclusion

The sentencing of Somluck Kamsing, Thailand’s first Olympic gold medallist, to prison for abduction and attempted rape is a shocking and disappointing turn of events. Kamsing’s denial of the allegations and his attempt to downplay the incident have been met with widespread criticism, and his conviction serves as a reminder that even those in positions of power and influence can be held accountable for their actions.

FAQs

• What did Somluck Kamsing do?
  Somluck Kamsing was found guilty of child abduction for molestation and attempted rape of a 17-year-old girl.
• How long was Kamsing sentenced to prison?
  Kamsing was sentenced to three years and six months in prison.
• Is Kamsing appealing his conviction?
  Yes, Kamsing has filed an appeal and was granted bail while he pursues his appeal.
• How much did Kamsing have to pay in damages?
  Kamsing was ordered to pay $5,000 in damages to the victim.