Thai Police Officers and Prosecution of Children in Thailand

Pemika Sanitphot, Sunee Kanyajit

Mahidol University

Patchara Sinloyma

Royal Police Cadet Academy of Thailand

Thanapat Patchim

Suan Dusit University

Abstract:

This research aimed to explore the police operations enacted in relation to the prosecution of children in Thailand, utilizing both quantitative (through a questionnaire completed by 325 respondents) and qualitative (through in-depth interviews conducted with 20 respondents). The sample constituted police officers, judges, public prosecutors and psychologists/social workers with experience in the prosecution of children. The research findings revealed that police officers in Thailand lacked knowledge and experience in relation to the prosecution of children, with regards to the pertinent legal provisions as well as prosecution principles which existed in this region. Furthermore, a standard operating procedure and a set of prosecution guidelines were also not being followed by the Thai police officers. These initiatives, if taken, would improve the capabilities of Thai police officers. Additionally, the current research also provided a model of standards for law enforcement entities to follow in the prosecution of children and juveniles in Thailand.

Keyword:

Police Officers, Prosecuting Children, Police Operation Model, Crime, Thailand