Department of Corrections

The Department of Corrections is an entity within Thailand's justice system responsible for managing prisoners and overseeing their release. It recently gained attention due to its involvement in the parole and official freedom of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Thaksin, aged 76, had served eight months of a one-year sentence for corruption and abuse of power. His release on parole was granted last month, reportedly due to his age and health. The Department of Corrections confirmed his official freedom following a royal pardon, which was part of a clemency measure marking the queen's birthday. This highlights the department's role in implementing judicial decisions and administrative processes related to inmate status and release, even for high-profile individuals.