In the early hours of Wednesday, 2 April 2025, a 62-year-old American tourist was arrested for stealing money from a donation box placed just steps away from the Pattaya City Police Station.
Stole from a Charity Box for Special Needs Kids
The donation box was meant to help children with special needs, as well as kids who are at risk or don’t have families, through the work of the Father Ray Foundation.
The incident occurred at approximately 2:30 AM and was reported by members of the public who noticed the man acting suspiciously.
According to The Thaiger, the man, later identified as John, was found attempting to break open the stainless-steel box using a stone.
Caught in the Act
When officers arrived on the scene, they discovered the man, who was at the time shirtless, was in the process of stealing coins, bills, and foreign currency from the damaged box.
Police then searched his luggage and found a wallet stuffed with the stolen cash, along with his passport.
The scene was made even more surreal by its location: directly in front of the police station and in plain sight of the public.
A Desperate Excuse and Legal Action
During questioning with the police, assisted by a translator, the man claimed that his actions were driven by hunger. He said he had lost his ATM card earlier after visiting a bar and could not afford food.
In a moment of desperation, he decided to target the charity box.
“He was very hungry,” The Pattanya News reported. Despite the man’s claims, Pattaya Police confirmed that legal proceedings were already underway.
About Father Ray Foundation
The Father Ray Foundation, founded in 1974 by Catholic priest Father Ray Brennan, has been helping the Pattaya community for decades.
The charity gives the children access to education, healthcare, and skills training so they can have a better future.
Watch the video here:
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