Around the World: Thailand

Australian jailed for 3 yrs

A Thai court sentenced an Australian writer to three years in jail yesterday for defaming the crown prince, the latest in a slew of lese-majeste cases that rights groups say are stifling freedom of speech.

Harry Nicolaides, who appeared in court in leg-irons and wearing brown prison overalls, remained impassive as he heard his sentence, which stemmed from his 2005 novel 'Verisimilitude', only seven copies of which were ever sold. "I wish my family the best," the 41-year-old Greek-Australian said as he was led from the court to begin his jail time.