The problem of suspects being pushed to make false confessions is not unique to Japan but, since protections for suspects being interrogated are relatively weak, it has long been recognized as a serious problem in Japan’s legal system. The first death sentence in Japan to be overturned because the confession was eventually ruled to have been forced was that of Menda Sakae of Kumamoto. Here’s another such case regarding a crime that occurred in Kumamoto. This one, however, isn’t over yet.
– Kirk
