Arrest warrant in Thailand for US academic who insulted monarchy

An arrest warrant was issued for a US academic in Thailand for violation of the strict lese-majeste laws.

Paul Chambers, a lecturer at Naresuan University, is accused of violating the lese-majeste and computer crime laws.

He could face three to 15 years in jail for each count of lese-majeste if convicted.

The Thai army filed a complaint for “defamation, contempt or malice” against the Thai Royal Family and importing false computer data that could “damage national security or cause public panic.”

According to Reuters, the charges relate to an article he posted online last year.

Chambers, who admitted to feeling intimidated by the accusation, told AFP over the phone: “I believe I’m the first non-Thai in years to face this charge.”

The US Embassy is supporting the American national.

In Thailand, it is a crime to defame, insult, or threaten the King, Queen, heir apparent or regent. Unlike other monarchies, Thailand has strengthened its lese-majeste laws since the end of World War II.

Those convicted of lese-majeste laws in Thailand can face up to 15 years behind bars; although, a man was sentenced to 50 years in jail last year for insulting the monarch. Thailand’s laws are considered some of the harshest lese-majeste laws in the world.