The Shizuoka Prefectural Police chief, Takayoshi Tsuda, visited Iwao Hakamada, an 88-year-old man who spent nearly 60 years fighting for his innocence after being wrongfully convicted of murder. Tsuda offered a personal apology for the “unspeakable mental distress” Hakamada endured due to the police’s actions, including fabricated evidence and coercive interrogation techniques, The Associated Press reports.
Hakamada, a former boxer, was acquitted in a retrial last month after the court found that police and prosecutors had collaborated to frame him. The prosecution ultimately waived its right to appeal, finally ending Hakamada’s decades-long battle for justice.
The police chief’s visit to Hakamada’s home was a significant moment, acknowledging the profound injustice inflicted upon him. During the visit, Tsuda expressed deep regret, stating, “We are terribly sorry.” He also promised to conduct “meticulous and appropriate investigations” in the future.
Hakamada, who struggles with the long-term effects of his confinement, responded with a poignant statement:
“What it means to have the authority… Once you have the power, you’re not supposed to grumble.”
Hakamada’s sister, Hideko, who dedicated her life to clearing her brother’s name, expressed gratitude for the police chief’s visit.
