Bangkok: Support for the death penalty must be genuinely enforced against repeat offenders who show no fear of the law. Criminologists agree that the death penalty must be effectively enforced against repeat offenders who pose a threat to society.

According to Thai News Agency, Associate Professor Police Lieutenant Colonel Dr. Krisanapong Pootrakul, a criminologist, commented on the arrest of Mr. Thana, or Pong, and Mr. Thongchai, or Thong, who are suspects in the murder of five people. This case has sparked public criticism of the death penalty. Dr. Krisanapong stated that while Thailand retains the death penalty, it is rarely used, despite being a signatory to the United Nations, where many countries, especially in Europe, have abolished it. He explained that Thailand's approach to the death penalty is based on three principles: revenge, deterrence, and rehabilitation.

In the Chonburi case, the suspect was a repeat offender who had previously served a prison sentence. After release, the suspect committed the same crime again, indicating a lack of fear of the law and posing a societal threat. Dr. Krisanapong emphasized that since the death penalty remains in Thai law, society likely agrees that effective enforcement is necessary for such dangerous individuals.

Dr. Krisanapong further noted that while the death penalty is not the ultimate solution for deterring crime, decisive and swift punishment can help reduce crime rates. He explained that the term "serial murderer" applies to individuals or groups committing two or more murders. Mr. Pong, having committed multiple serious offenses, fits the FBI's definition of a serial killer.

In Mr. Pong's case, the Department of Corrections assessed his risk before release and recommended post-release monitoring measures under the Recidivism Prevention Act B.E. 2565 (2022). Dr. Krisanapong highlighted that the Act involves risk assessment by multiple agencies. However, Mr. Pong's case shows that even with these measures, he was able to reoffend. Dr. Krisanapong stressed the need to review enforcement loopholes and questioned whether released prisoners are adequately monitored beyond scheduled reporting periods. He proposed that local administrative organizations should play a greater role in monitoring released prisoners, as the current number of probation officers is insufficient to curb rising crime rates.