Senior judge accused of molestation on sleeper train to Chiang Mai

A female court stenographer has lodged a complaint with the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), alleging that a senior judge molested her while they were travelling on a sleeper train to Chiang Mai for a personnel development activity.

Investigators, led by Police Colonel Ekkasit Panseetha, began their inquiry into the case on Wednesday, July 10, after the stenographer filed her lawsuit. She recounted to the investigators that the incident occurred on June 1, between Sila At Station in Uttaradit and Den Chai Station in Phrae. The judge, believed to be intoxicated, allegedly sexually harassed her during the journey.

CSD commander Police Major General Montri Thetkhan was informed about the complaint by Pol. Col. Ekkasit. Following this, Pol. Maj. Gen. Montri briefed Pol. Maj. Gen. Suwat Saengnum, deputy commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), who subsequently directed the CSD to establish a panel for a thorough investigation.

“The accused judge will be temporarily transferred to an inactive post at the Office of the President of the Supreme Court,.”

This transfer order was signed by the Supreme Court president and is set to take effect from Monday.

The case has garnered significant attention, with Pol. Maj. Gen. Montri and his team maintaining discretion about the ongoing investigation. The decision to transfer the judge seeks to ensure an impartial inquiry while the allegations are being examined, reported Bangkok Post.

ORIGINAL STORY: Senior Thai judge transferred after molestation accusation on train

The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court urgently transferred a senior judge following accusations of molesting a female court officer on a sleeper train. A high-ranking source within the judiciary revealed the incident occurred during a staff development activity.

The female officer lodged a complaint against the senior judge, who belongs to a major court in Bangkok, following the incident that took place on a sleeper train to Chiang Mai on June 1. The complaint was submitted to the Secretary-General of the Office of the Judiciary and the Judicial Commission on June 25.

Reports indicate that the Chief Justice signed the transfer order for the senior judge, who holds a high-ranking position as a chief judge in a major court yesterday, July 2. The judge will temporarily assist at the Office of the Chief Justice starting from July 8. Chumphon Chuwong, a Supreme Court judge, has been assigned to temporarily take over the position of chief judge.

“The decision to transfer the judge was made swiftly to ensure an impartial investigation. The judiciary takes such allegations seriously and aims to maintain trust and integrity within the system.”

The incident has sparked considerable concern within the judiciary, highlighting the need for stringent measures to prevent such occurrences. The rapid response from the Chief Justice underscores the urgency and gravity of the situation, reflecting the judiciary’s commitment to upholding ethical standards.

The transfer order comes amid growing calls for greater accountability and transparency within the judiciary.

The female court officer, whose identity remains confidential, reported the incident shortly after it occurred, reported KhaoSod.

“We must ensure that the investigation is thorough and fair, without any undue influence.”