Nissan executive linked to Ghosn case released on bail

Japanese authorities yesterday released on bail a Nissan executive accused of a key role in the financial misconduct case involving auto tycoon Carlos Ghosn, who remains in detention.

Greg Kelly, wearing a casual zip-up jacket and looking tired, walked out of the Tokyo Detention Centre more than a month after his arrest and got into a waiting taxi without speaking to the media. In a statement prepared before his release, Kelly said he was arrested “for unexpected suspicion, during which I had hard times for my disease in this detention facility.” He said he would now consult a doctor regarding a health problem. “I expect that the trial will start soon. I have not been involved in an alleged false entry. I believe my innocence will be revealed in the trial,” he said in the statement, according to Kyodo News.

“I would like to have a judgement of non-guilty and restore my impaired reputation, and then return to my family as soon as possible,” he said. His release came after the Tokyo District Court had approved a request by his lawyers. His bail was at 70 million yen ($635,000), which he paid in cash, according to the court. Prosecutors appealed the decision, but the court turned them down. Kelly was granted bail reportedly on condition that he would not leave Japan, make contact with anyone involved in the case, or destroy evidence. He would also need court approval to attend board meetings at Nissan, public broadcaster NHK said. The 62-year-old American was arrested on November 19 at the same time as Ghosn on allegations he helped him under-report his compensation at Nissan for years.