I am sorry for my earlier stupid remark. My experience in Thailand is that the "letter of the law" doesn't always apply and these things are "fluid". But, you are correct. That is the law.
it really does depend on how serious the crime is. For instance if it is a crime against a child, a significant robbery, large volume drugs, or a murder there is no quarter given.
correct. If you keep track of the speed at which arrests are made here it constantly amazes me how well they respond to serious crime. Even Ferrari Joe knew he wouldn't last long in the "wild"
how long have you lived in Thailand? The "letter of the law" is a flexible boundary in my experience. Of course there are police that follow the letter of the law, but it often depends on the seriousness of crime, surrender, apology, asking for forgiveness and financial compensation as settlement outside of court.
yeah, I have a Thai mate out on bail for a triple shooting. 6 shots, 2 dead, one critical. He has been out on bail for a year. The victims were known to police and he really did the police a favour but still cost him dearly.