Stepfather arrested in Nonthaburi for alleged year-long child abuse

Thai police apprehended a stepfather for sexually abusing his eight year old stepdaughter for nearly a year. The suspect, 36 year old Wichan, denies the allegations and challenges the evidence. Police remain sceptical of his claims.

A joint operation of the Metropolitan Police and criminal investigation trainees led to the arrest at a residence in Bang Si Mueang, Nonthaburi, following an incident reported on December 25, 2022. The young girl, referred to as A, sought refuge with her aunt, revealing that her stepfather had been abusing her since March 2022.

A detailed account from the girl disclosed that the abuse started during the school holidays when her mother would leave early for work, leaving her alone with her stepfather. This continued for over ten months until December 2022, when she managed to escape during an assault. She fought back, kicking and slapping her stepfather, and ran to her aunt, leading to the police report and subsequent investigation.

Investigators gathered sufficient evidence to obtain an arrest warrant for Wichan from the Nonthaburi Provincial Court. The investigation team tracked down Wichan, who had been hiding in Bang Si Mueang, Nonthaburi. The police successfully captured him on August 31.

During questioning, Wichan denied all charges of sexual assault and child abuse, insisting he had never had issues with the victim. He challenged the investigative officers to conduct a medical examination, claiming the accusations stemmed from a conflict with the girl’s biological father. However, Police Lieutenant General Theeradet Thammasuthee remains sceptical about his claims.

“We do not fully believe the suspect’s testimony. The girl’s words are pure and there is no reason for her to lie. Additionally, other evidence supports the charges against him.”

The case highlights the disturbing reality of abuse occurring within what should be a safe environment for children. Teeradech expressed his hope for the victim’s recovery and urged the public to remain vigilant about children’s safety, encouraging them to report any suspicious behaviour to the police, reported KhaoSod.

“I wish the young victim strength to overcome this traumatic experience and grow resilient. Her bravery in speaking out is commendable. I urge the public to monitor their children’s behaviour closely, as they might be enduring similar ordeals.”