BANGKOK: A former Thai police chief, jailed for life over a viral torture video, was found dead in his Bangkok prison cell. Authorities suspect suicide.
Thitisan Utthanaphon, known as “Joe Ferrari” for his luxury cars, was convicted for suffocating a 24-year-old drug suspect during interrogation in 2021.
The leaked video of the brutal incident sparked national outrage over police brutality. His death has reignited discussions about the case.
Family Questions Suicide
Authorities stated that a preliminary autopsy confirmed suicide, but Thitisan’s family expressed doubts and demanded a thorough investigation.
The justice ministry ordered further tests and urged full disclosure of all evidence related to his death in prison.
The family also alleged that prison staff had assaulted Thitisan previously, but authorities denied any officer or inmate caused his death.
Luxury Lifestyle Exposed
A police raid on Thitisan’s house in 2021 uncovered at least 42 luxury cars, including a rare Lamborghini Aventador Anniversario worth $1.45 million.
Despite earning only $1,000 per month, allegations suggested he demanded bribes while torturing the suspect, though he denied this claim.
Thitisan surrendered after a manhunt in 2021. In 2022, five other officers were also sentenced to life for their involvement in the crime.
Justice Minister’s Demand
Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong urged prison authorities to cooperate with investigators and ensure transparency in the ongoing probe.
The Department of Corrections confirmed investigating previous complaints that Thitisan was bullied and assaulted by prison staff earlier in 2025.
His family last visited him on the day of his death, and prison staff reported no unusual behavior at the time.
Social Media Uproar
Following Thitisan’s death, the 2021 torture video resurfaced, sparking fresh outrage and debates over police brutality in Thailand.
The victim’s father commented, “It’s like he has paid off the karma he committed.” The case remains under investigation.
