📢 Example Case: A construction contractor takes money from customers but fails to build homes as contracted, affecting a large number of victims. Does this constitute the offense of “Fraud” under the Criminal Code?
👉 In criminal offenses, “Intent” is the central deciding factor.
🔎 In this case, the contractor possesses “dishonest intent” to deceive others by asserting falsehoods or concealing truths. Through such acts, property is obtained from customers, constituting the criminal offense of “Fraud.”
However, because the contractor committed such acts against multiple members of the public together, it constitutes the offense of “Public Fraud” under Section 343 of the Criminal Code, which carries higher penalties:
⚖️ Punishable by imprisonment for not more than 5 years, or a fine not more than 100,000 Baht, or both.
📌 Victims can pursue criminal prosecution against the contractor while simultaneously claiming civil damages.
🚨 Immediate actions victims should take: ✔ Gather all information, such as contracts, proof of money transfers, or online chat records.
✔ Take photos of the damage at the site.
✔ File a criminal complaint with police officers in the jurisdiction where the offense occurred.
✔ Consult a lawyer for guidance on legal proceedings from the police station level up to court.
#The law exists to protect those acting in good faith. Do not remain silent and allow further damage to occur.
