Thai Judge Upholds Life Sentence for Daniel Sancho, Rejects Appeals

The Thai justice system has upheld the life sentence for **Daniel Sancho** for the premeditated murder of **Edwin Arrieta**, dismissing the appeals filed by the defense.

## The Verdict Stands Firm

The Provincial Court of Samui, Thailand, has ruled to dismiss the appeals presented by **Daniel Sancho**'s defense. This decision maintains the life sentence imposed on the Spaniard for the premeditated murder of Colombian surgeon **Edwin Arrieta**. The events occurred on **August 2, 2023**, on the island of **Phangan**, where, in addition to the murder, he was found guilty of dismemberment and stealing the victim's passport. **Sancho** is currently held in **Surat Thani** prison, one of the largest correctional facilities in the country.

## Appeals Rejected

**Sancho**'s defense had requested a retrial, arguing that **Arrieta**'s death was accidental during a fight and seeking the summoning of new witnesses. The victim's family, on the other hand, had filed their own appeal, requesting that the sentence be elevated to the death penalty and the compensation set in the first-instance ruling be increased. This compensation was established at **4.42 million Thai baht**, equivalent to approximately **117,000 euros** or **133,500 dollars**. The decision on these appeals was communicated in Thai by the Provincial Court of Samui, after being prepared by the Phuket Court of Appeals.

## The Judicial Path

This resolution represents the first of two possible appeals before the sentence becomes final. Each party has the right to file up to two appeals, including a potential appeal to the Supreme Court. The judicial hearing was held behind closed doors, with the presence of lawyers and representatives from both sides. Lawyers **Aphichat Srinuel** and **Alice Keartjareanlap** represented **Sancho**, while **Metapon Suwancharen** and **Nattha Jongratwanin** acted on behalf of **Arrieta**'s family.