The Story

Back in 1977, film director Roman Polanski was arrested and charged with a number of sexual offenses against 13-year-old Samantha Geimer.

At his arraignment, Polanski plead not guilty to all charges and Geimer’s attorney arranged a plea bargain which the film director accepted and – under those terms – five of the charges were to be dismissed. He plead guilty to the charge of “engaging in unlawful sexual intercourse,” which under California law is similar to statutory rape. The judge ordered Polanski to serve 90 days in prison, but he was released after 42 days.

Despite Polanski’s expectations that he would receive only probation at his sentencing, the judge told to his attorneys that he would be imprisoned and deported. After learning the judge’s plans, Polanski fled to France in February 1978 just hours before he was to be sentenced. As a citizen there, he was protected from any form of extradition.

Today

Two months ago, Polanski was arrested by Swiss police because of his outstanding U.S. warrant when he entered Switzerland to accept a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Zurich Film Festival. He was initially refused bail and his subsequent appeal was rejected by Switzerland’s Federal Criminal Court.

The Swiss court finally granted the director $4.5 million bail only if he remains under house arrest at his Alpine chalet. Polanski is now expected to be released soon.

The Swiss Justice Ministry reported it will keep Polanski in custody until at least next week.

Nice try escaping the law, Polanski. Better luck next time.