What was supposed to be a straightforward business trip turned into a harrowing ordeal for British consultant Rachel Stallard.
The Bournemouth-based private estates consultant claims she was unjustly arrested in Thailand after confronting a client who allegedly owed her £30,000.
However, Thai police tell a very different story, releasing CCTV footage that contradicts her claims and branding her a liar.
Accusations, CCTV Footage, and Police Statements
According to Stallard, she flew to Thailand to collect unpaid wages from an Italian client, Stefano Schiavi, only to be arrested and slapped with multiple serious charges.
She insists that her detention was unfair, alleging mistreatment by Thai authorities.
However, Thai police have pushed back on her version of events, releasing CCTV footage that reportedly shows Stallard and a male accomplice inside the victim’s apartment.
In the footage, the unidentified man is seen pinning Schiavi down and choking him while shouting threats.
Stallard is seen handing over what appears to be a long white object, though its purpose remains unclear.
Thai authorities claim the victim sustained significant injuries to his neck and chest from the attack.
Claims of Mistreatment in Jail
In a now-deleted LinkedIn post, Stallard described her experience in a Thai jail, alleging that she was held for “four days and nights” with no food or water.
She even claimed she had to bribe a police officer to receive scraps of food.
However, police records dispute this. Officials assert that Stallard was arrested on November 18, 2024, at 7 PM and was detained for less than 48 hours before being taken to Bangkok South Criminal Court.
Authorities also deny any mistreatment, stating that she was provided three meals a day and even allowed to purchase food through the UK Embassy.
Legal Battle and Financial Fallout
Stallard says her ordeal has left her in financial ruin.
She claims to have spent over £70,000 trying to return home, along with £14,000 for bail and £24,000 in legal fees.
She further alleges that she was found guilty of two charges without even having the chance to present her side of the story.
Facing a lengthy legal battle, she fears she may have to wait six to eight years for her trial.
Allegations of Corruption and Unfair Charges
Stallard strongly believes she was unfairly targeted.
She alleges that her wealthy client used his influence to have her arrested, claiming Thai police accepted bribes to press charges against her.
She insists that there is no proof of any of the accusations against her.
Thai Authorities Respond to Claims
Police Colonel Pansa Amarapitak of Thong Lor Police Station has dismissed Stallard’s allegations, warning that legal action will be taken against her for spreading false information.
He reiterated that all procedures followed were in accordance with Thai law and that she received proper treatment while in custody.
What’s Next for Stallard?
Now back in the UK, Stallard is struggling to piece her life back together.
She says she is “broke and in debt” after spending tens of thousands of pounds on legal fees and travel expenses.
Her case has sparked debate, with some supporting her claims of unfair treatment while others believe Thai authorities’ version of events.
As the legal proceedings continue, one question remains—will she ever be able to clear her name?
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