Japanese prosecutors announced on October 8 that they will not appeal the acquittal in the retrial of Hakamada Iwao, who was convicted of murder 58 years ago.  

Hakamada's sister Hideko along with his defense team held a press conference to express their joy at the prosecution's decision not to appeal the ruling.  

Hakamada Hideko: Now the case is closed, and no one can say anything. I am very happy that Iwao is no longer on death row. As he is 88 years old, I don't want much, but I hope Iwao will at least live a little longer.  

Okada Hideyo, Defense Lawyer: We are happy that it was decided not to appeal the case.  

The Shizuoka Prefectural Police, which oversaw the original investigation, made a statement about the situation, saying it was sorry for Hakamada’s long-term unstable legal situation.  

The Shizuoka District Public Prosecutor's Office also waived its right to appeal, which confirmed Hakamada's acquittal on October 9