The Grand Theft Auto series was banned in Thailand after a 19 year old student killed a taxi driver. The student admitted that GTA inspired him to kill the taxi driver and steal the cab, because he wanted to see if it was as easy to do it in real life as the game. In response to this, the Thailand officials have banned the series and stated it was due to the games' obscene content that prohibits reproduction, violence, possession, and distribution.
Any stores carrying or selling the game will face a fine of $135 and up to three years in prison. Online retailers will get 5 years in prison and $3000 fine.
**The following is my opinion. So please take it as such.**
On a side note, I feel this is a horrible set back to the gaming community. This can only lead to more bans and limits to game play, as well as harsher legislation for the gaming community to see in the coming years. I wish that so many people wouldn't be penalized for the actions of so few. Part of me wonders if he used the video game as an escape goat. A way to say he wasn't totally responsible for his actions. But only time will tell what kind of penalties lie in wake for the gaming community.