Famed film director Roman Polanski, who has been held in a Swiss jail since he was arrested on September 26, 2009 in Zurich, has secured bail by turning over $4.9 million in cash. He will be electronically monitored while awaiting the outcome of an attempt by the U.S. to extradite him for a sex crime that occurred in 1977.
The surprise decision was announced on Friday by the Swiss Criminal Court. They indicate that Polanski, who is considered a high flight risk, will be moved within the next few days to his Alpine swiss chalet, where he will be under constant surveillance until a decision on extradition is reached. With the possibility of multiple appeals, it could be some time before the matter is resolved.
It has been reported that the sitting judges at the Palais de Justice in Geneva were swayed to grant bail based upon Polanski’s family circumstances. He has been married since 1989 to Emmanuelle Seigner. They have two children, Morgane and Elvis.
It was recently announced that Christie’s Auction House will sell a nude photo of Polanski and his wife Sharon Tate on December 7, 2009. The portrait was taken in 1969, shortly before the actress was murdered by followers of Charles Manson – photos here.
View pictures below of the luxury Gstaad chalet where Polanski is headed, reportedly as soon as Monday, November 30, 2009.