The policeman accused of killing beloved CMU dog, Pi Tia, during the 2020 lockdown, has been sentenced to six months in jail for killing an animal. Many may recall the drama surrounding the disappearance of Chiang Mai University’s beloved dog, Pi Tia, who was widely loved by students, faculty and staff of Chiang Mai University, often leading the charge up Doi Suthep during the annual fresher’s week. Pi Tia, believed to have been around eight years old, went missing on 7th May 2020, causing widespread panic during the shut down. It was a few days later when his body was found by the side of a small road and outrage ensued. To refresh your memory, read our previous write up on the story here: https://www.chiangmaicitylife.com/clg/our-city/meet-the-locals/pi-tia-cmu-mascot/ The university’s CCTV footage eventually showed a man taking Pi Tia on his motorbike out of the university gate, something which many in Pi Tia’s fan club claimed to have done regularly. It was soon learned that the man was Police Corporal Prinya Panyabutre, who eventually confessed to having taken the dog out for a drive but ran him over when he fell off the vehicle. The case took on a life of its own as fan clubs were set up, social media spread the word, traditional media featured the story, celebrities spoke out on behalf of Pi Tia and eventually the animal rights group Watchdog Thailand got involved. Today a verdict was handed down by Chiang Mai Provincial Court against Pol. Corp. Prinya with a sentence of 6 months for animal cruelty. Charges of theft of university property were dropped. Dozens of fans gathered at the court today, weeping tears of joy and holding signs declaring justice for Pi Tia. If you are interested, Pi Tia’s bones can be found at the Chiang Mai University’s Veterinary Anatomy and Pathology Museum.
