Investigations Launched After Thai Police Chief 'Joe Ferrari' Found Dead in Prison

The former Thai police chief, Thitisan Utthanaphon, infamous for his involvement in a torture scandal, was found dead in his prison cell, leading to investigations into the circumstances of his death amidst family concerns over potential foul play.

A high-profile case in Thailand is drawing renewed attention following the death of Thitisan Utthanaphon, known as 'Joe Ferrari' due to his extravagant collection of luxury cars. Thitisan, a former police chief sentenced to life imprisonment three years ago for the torture and murder of a drug suspect, was discovered dead in his Bangkok jail cell, with initial reports indicating suicide.

Thitisan's notoriety surged in 2021 when a disturbing video of his interrogation methods went viral, showing him and his colleagues suffocating 24-year-old drug suspect Jirapong Thanapat with plastic bags. This revelation incited widespread condemnation of police brutality in Thailand. Authorities stated that the video has resurfaced on social media following Thitisan’s passing.

In the wake of his death, Thailand's justice ministry has commenced an investigation to ascertain the truth behind his demise, primarily due to his family's doubts regarding the suicide verdict. Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong has called for a transparent review of all findings pertaining to Thitisan's death and has urged prison officials to cooperate fully with the inquiry.

Conflicting claims have emerged regarding Thitisan’s treatment in custody, with his family accusing prison staff of prior assaults against him. They reported being denied access to his body after it was found on Friday. Meanwhile, prison authorities maintained that no one had harmed him.

During a raid on his residence, authorities uncovered multiple luxury vehicles, including a rare Lamborghini valued at approximately $1.45 million. Despite his luxurious lifestyle, Thitisan's official income as a police colonel was around $1,000 per month. He had previously surrendered to authorities in 2021 after an extensive manhunt, following allegations of extorting bribes during the torture incident.

In addition to Thitisan, five other police officers were also convicted and sentenced to life for the murder of Jirapong. This case has deeply resonated with the public, and Jirapong’s father expressed a chilling sentiment, perceiving Thitisan's death as a form of poetic justice for the wrongs committed. The Department of Corrections added that they have been investigating complaints about Thitisan's treatment while in prison. It has been revealed that he sought medical help for anxiety and sleep disorders leading up to his death, and his family visited him on the day he was found dead without any noted concerns from staff about his condition.