Allegations of Sexual Abuse: British Teacher Arrested at Bangkok’s Siam International School
In a deeply disturbing incident, a 49-year-old married British teacher, David Brown, from Tynemouth, Tyne and Wear, has been arrested for the alleged sexual abuse of girls aged seven to eight at Siam International School in Pathum Thani, Bangkok.
Brown, who had reportedly worked at the £6,600-a-year school since at least September 2017, is accused of luring children into his office during dinner breaks under the pretext of extra English lessons.
Discovery and Arrest: Teacher Stumbles Upon Alleged Abuse
The alleged abuse came to light when a teacher at the school claimed to have overheard girls discussing what Brown had done to them.
Brown was subsequently arrested on January 24 at 6 am, collapsing in front of his wife during the arrest.
Following a brief hospitalization, he was discharged and questioned by the police at 1 pm.
The investigation aims to determine the duration of the alleged abuse and identify potential additional victims.
Police Confirmation: Investigating a Prolonged Pattern of Abuse
Police Colonel Jirawat Piampinseth confirmed the accusations, revealing that Brown had been living in Thailand for seven or eight years and joined the school in 2017.
Parents of four children have filed complaints, alleging that Brown sexually abused the children after taking them to his office for English lessons.
Legal Ramifications: Potential 10-Year Sentence for Brown
If charged and convicted, Brown faces up to 10 years in prison. His wife, Toey Srisangar, acted as an interpreter during police proceedings.
The alleged abuse, believed to have been ongoing for an unknown period, has sent shockwaves through the school, where parents pay substantial fees.
Parental Anguish: Reactions and Outrage
Parents of the alleged victims expressed anger, shock, and sympathy for the affected children. A mother of an eight-year-old victim stated she was “furious,” while another parent discovered the abuse after five years of their daughter studying at the school.
Even parents whose children were not among the complainants expressed disbelief and distress.
School’s Response: Investigation and Silence
The school, charging fees of up to £6,600 a year, has not provided a statement yet.
A receptionist mentioned that the director would decide whether to release a statement after a meeting next week. The headmistress confirmed.
