Carlos Ghosn left Tokyo Detention House on $9 million bail in 2019 after more than 100 days in custody, avoiding media attention while wearing a face mask and workman’s attire. The former Nissan chairman, charged with financial misconduct, secured release following a court decision rejecting prosecutors’ bid to extend his detention.
Ghosn agreed to stringent bail conditions, including surrendering his passport, installing surveillance cameras at his residence, and restricting internet access. He is barred from communicating with individuals involved in his case, with computer use limited to his lawyer’s office. The former Renault and Mitsubishi Motors chairman faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted of aggravated breach of trust and underreporting his salary by $82 million.
Denying the allegations as "meritless," Ghosn vowed to defend himself vigorously in court. French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire welcomed his release, stating it would enable "greater ease" in mounting a defense. The case has drawn international scrutiny to Japan’s criminal justice system, which permits prolonged pretrial detentions and limits defense access during interrogations.
Ghosn’s legal team shifted strategy after hiring attorney Junichiro Hironaka, known for high-profile acquittals. His release allows the former auto industry leader to prepare for a trial expected months away. The Nissan-Renault-Mitsubishi alliance, which Ghosn helped establish, faces uncertainty amid ongoing legal proceedings.
