IRISH MODEL FACES THAI JAIL OVER BETTING ADS
Jessie, 19, accused of breaking country’s strict gambling laws
15 net idols are included in warrants for gambling posts on social media GEN CHALERMKEATE SRIWORAKHAN
YESTERDAY
It’s reported Jessie urged others not to promote gambling AN Irish glamour model could face a year in jail after allegedly breaking Thailand’s strict gambling laws.
Jessie Vard handed herself in at a police station in Bangkok yesterday after being issued with a court summons.
It’s believed the 19-year-old from Donegal had been charged with promoting online betting for websites.
Gambling is illegal in Thailand but some models earn tens of thousands of euros a month promoting it – often by writing a website name across their cleavage.
Miss Vard, who moved to Bangkok as a child, has amassed millions of fans since becoming a model.
Royal Thai Police Deputy Commissioner General Chalermkeate Sriworakhan added: “Fifteen net idols are included in warrant calls for posting gambling suggestive posts on social media including Miss Jessy Vard. ‘’During the World Cup there will be heavier patrols to check on pubs and bars. “Please enjoy the sports but don’t be involved in gambling.”
The authorities had been cracking down on football betting ahead of the World Cup. Yesterday Vard and four other girls – among 15 issued with warrants last week – turned themselves in at Bangkok’s Phayathai Police Station, it is reported.
She is believed to have admitted violating antigambling laws, which carries a maximum penalty of a year in prison and a fine of 1,000 baht (€26).
Vard reportedly apologised publicly on behalf of the entire group of models who allegedly promoted the gambling sites. She said she did not know the activity was illegal and added: “Please do not become involved with these sites.”
The other models charged were Paradee Koosinsap, 21, Saitarn Yim-ampai, 20, Nirada Kuenongkun, 25, and Thanyakarn Lojin, 23. They have all been released on bail and will be sentenced later this month. The gambling industry – including sports betting, casinos, lotteries and cards dens – makes up the equivalent of billions of pounds each year in Thailand’s grey economy.