The trial against Daniel Sancho, accused of the premeditated murder of Colombian surgeon Edwin Arrieta, has concluded in Thailand with a closing statement from the accused. The trial lasted nearly a month and took place behind closed doors at the Provincial Court of the island of Samui. The judge has set August 29th for the reading of the full sentence. Sancho, the son of actor Rodolfo Sancho, is facing a prosecution request for the death penalty. The accused and Arrieta had planned to meet on August 2nd on Koh Pangan, known for its full moon parties. Sancho reported Arrieta missing on August 3rd and was formally arrested two days later. Despite initially confessing to the crime, Sancho later claimed that Arrieta died accidentally during a fight.
Sancho is charged with premeditated murder, destroying the victim’s passport, dismembering the body, and concealing it, though he pleaded not guilty to the first two charges. The co-prosecution has pointed out Sancho’s lack of remorse and unanswered questions during the trial, such as why he did not seek help or why he dismembered the victim. The family of the victim believes that the death could have been prevented. Sancho’s defense lawyer stated that following the presentation of the serious charges against him, Sancho had to defend himself. Sancho claims that Arrieta’s death resulted from a fight in self-defense after the Colombian surgeon tried to “violate” him and threatened him and his family.
During his testimony, Sancho expressed regret for what happened, claiming it was unintentional. The defense witnesses and closing arguments were presented during the final session of the trial. Sancho responded to questions from the prosecution and co-prosecution, briefly expressing regret at one point. The difficulty of proving premeditation, necessary for the death penalty to be applied, was acknowledged by the prosecution. The trial was described as proceeding “without surprises,” with the victim’s family seeking justice and financial compensation.
Rodolfo Sancho, the father of the accused, has attended all trial sessions, requesting respect from the media. He insisted that he had conveyed his condolences to the victim’s family and expressed satisfaction with the trial process. The family of the victim is seeking compensation of 410,000 euros. The trial has been closely followed by Spanish media, with Sancho’s father present at each session. The defense lawyer emphasized the family’s quest for justice and their confidence in the legal system. The trial highlighted the tragic events surrounding Arrieta’s death and the impact on both families involved.
