Longest-serving death row inmate acquitted of 1966 quadruple murder

Hakamada’s case has drawn significant attention to the flaws in Japan’s criminal justice system, which has a conviction rate exceeding 99%. Initially convicted in 1968 for the murder of a company executive and three family members, Hakamada’s sentence was delayed due to prolonged appeals and the retrial process. His conviction was based largely on a confession he later claimed was coerced during violent police interrogations. The court’s recent ruling highlighted the dubious nature of the evidence, including bloodstained clothing that was allegedly planted by investigators. This verdict not only marks a significant moment for Hakamada and his family but also reignites discussions about the death penalty in Japan, where public support for capital punishment remains strong despite concerns over wrongful convictions.

Background of the Case

• Conviction and Sentencing: Hakamada was convicted in 1968 for the murder of a company manager and three of his family members, alongside arson charges. He spent 48 years in prison, with over 45 of those years on death row, making him the longest-serving death row inmate globally.

• Legal Journey: His journey through the legal system has been fraught with challenges. It took 27 years for the top court to deny his first appeal for a retrial, and it wasn’t until 2008 that a second appeal was filed by his sister. In 2014, new evidence suggested that his conviction was based on fabricated accusations, leading to his release while awaiting retrial.

Court Ruling and Implications

The Shizuoka District Court’s ruling on September 26, 2024, concluded that the evidence against Hakamada was not only unreliable but also fabricated. The judge noted that clothing purportedly worn by Hakamada during the crime had been improperly handled, with scientific tests indicating that bloodstains could not have remained visible after being soaked in miso for over a year. This ruling is significant as it marks Hakamada as the fifth death row inmate in postwar Japan to be found not guilty in a retrial, highlighting systemic issues within the country’s legal framework.

Reactions and Future Considerations

Following the ruling, Hakamada’s family expressed immense relief and gratitude for the support they received throughout the lengthy legal battle. His acquittal has sparked renewed discussions about the death penalty in Japan, where executions are carried out in secrecy and the legal process for retrials is notoriously difficult. Advocates for reform are calling for changes to ensure that wrongful convictions are addressed more effectively, reflecting broader concerns about justice and human rights within the system.