By Gwurld4026 
$1.4M Award for Japanese Boxer Wrongfully Convicted of Murder
Iwao Hakamada, an 89-year-old former professional boxer from Japan, has been awarded ¥217 million (approximately $1.4 million) in compensation for his wrongful conviction and the 46 years he spent on death row. This payout equates to ¥12,500 ($83) for each day of his incarceration and is considered the highest-ever criminal compensation granted in Japan.
Hakamada was originally sentenced to death in 1968 for the alleged murder of his employer and the employer’s family in 1966. His conviction was primarily based on a confession obtained under duress during extended interrogations, a practice that has drawn significant criticism. After decades of legal battles and advocacy, his conviction was overturned in 2024, leading to his release and subsequent exoneration.
The Shizuoka District Court’s decision to award this compensation reflects a growing acknowledgment of the need for judicial reform in Japan, particularly concerning the treatment of death row inmates and the reliance on forced confessions. Hakamada’s case has become emblematic of these issues, highlighting the urgent need for changes within the Japanese legal system.
Despite his release, Hakamada continues to face challenges, including health issues attributed to his prolonged confinement. His legal team is contemplating further legal action against the government for the injustices he endured.