Iwao Hakamata, who spent nearly 50 years on death row, has been awarded 217 million yen, marking Japan’s largest criminal case payout. His case exemplifies significant flaws in the justice system, including inquiries into forced confessions and evidence mishandling. Acquitted in 2022, Hakamata’s long struggle highlights the need for reforms in legal proceedings.
Iwao Hakamata, an 89-year-old Japanese man who spent nearly five decades on death row, has been awarded 217 million yen (approximately $1.45 million) in compensation. His lawyers assert that this payout is the largest in Japan’s criminal history. Hakamata was convicted in 1968 for allegedly murdering his boss, the boss’s wife, and their two children but was acquitted in 2022 after a retrial.
The lengthy period of incarceration took a severe toll on Hakamata’s mental health, according to his legal team. Judge Kunii Koshi acknowledged the “extremely severe” mental and physical pain that Hakamata endured during his 47 years in detention, confirming the compensation request on Monday.
Mr. Hakamata’s legal ordeal is one of Japan’s most prominent and protracted cases. He was released in 2014 after suspicions arose regarding potential evidence tampering during his investigation. Large crowds celebrated his acquittal last September at a court in Shizuoka, where attendees cheered in joy.
Due to his deteriorating mental condition, Hakamata was unable to attend the hearing; he had been exempted from all previous court appearances. Following his release, he has been cared for by his 91-year-old sister, Hideko, who steadfastly advocated for his exoneration.
Mr. Hakamata was implicated in the deaths of his employer and the family members following a fire at their home, where all four were found stabbed to death. Initially denying any wrongdoing, he later submitted what he characterized as a coerced confession due to abusive interrogation practices. In 1968, he was sentenced to death despite a lack of matching DNA evidence.
The case has provoked significant scrutiny regarding the Japanese justice system, particularly concerning the lengthy processes surrounding retrials and the allegations of forced confessions.
In summary, Iwao Hakamata’s case highlights critical issues within the Japanese legal system, particularly regarding the treatment of individuals on death row and the long duration of legal proceedings. His substantial compensation marks a historic moment in Japan, illustrating the profound impact his wrongful conviction had on his life. The case raises vital questions about forced confessions and the integrity of evidence in criminal trials.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
