On December 23, 2024, the Nagano District Court delivered its verdict against former Nagano prefectural assembly member Daisuke Maruyama, sentencing him to 19 years in prison for the murder of his wife, Nozomi. The incident, which occurred on September 29, 2021, has been marked as particularly brutal, with Judge Masafumi Sakaida calling the actions "cold-blooded and brutal" during the proceedings.
Maruyama, aged 50 at the time of sentencing, was found guilty of strangling his wife, who was 47 at the time of her death. The murder took place at their home, which also functioned as the office for Maruyama's sake brewing business, located in Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture. During the trial, the prosecution presented indirect evidence, as direct evidence proving Maruyama's guilt was absent.
The court revealed insights about Maruyama’s motive, which stemmed from his desire to reconcile with another woman he had previously had an affair with. This was underscored during the trial, where the relationship dynamics and personal motivations of the accused became focal points. Judge Sakaida indicated, "The desire for this relationship was significant enough to lead to thoughts of murdering his wife. This reality should not be overlooked."
Surveillance footage played a pivotal role throughout the trial, linking Maruyama's movements between the crime scene and the location where he was supposedly preparing for parliamentary duties. Despite Maruyama's defense team attempting to portray the evidence as circumstantial, Judge Sakaida refuted this position, stating, "The vehicle seen on surveillance footage likely belongs to the defendant, and this is backed by the timing and direction of the vehicle's path. It moves beyond mere hypothesis." This strong assertion directed much of the court's proceedings.
The trial spanned 18 days, during which 21 witnesses were called to testify. The prosecution emphasized the accumulation of circumstantial evidence, pointing to shoeprints found at the scene, which matched shoes owned by Maruyama. The argument put forth was difficult to rebut; the defense claimed discrepancies and asserted the possibility of other suspects, but judge and jury alike remained unconvinced.
Maruyama consistently maintained his innocence throughout the trial, declaring, "I did not kill my wife Nozomi." His defense team argued he had been preparing for parliamentary duties the night before the murder, supposedly seen at the assembly housing. The judge, reflecting on Maruyama’s alibi, stated the evidence against him was overwhelming, citing, "There is no explanation for anyone other than the defendant being the perpetrator."
After the verdict was announced, Maruyama was observed returning to his seat expressionless, though he repeatedly wiped sweat from his face, indicating the emotional toll of the proceedings. The defense plans to appeal, making the legal saga far from over.
This case has drawn significant public interest and highlighted issues around domestic violence, infidelity, and the interpretation of circumstantial evidence within the Japanese legal framework. The scale and severity of this crime alongside the defendant’s high-profile background adds layers of complexity and intrigue to this case.
Judge Sakaida's comments served not just as judgment but as social critique on the motives driving such heinous acts. His assertion reflected the public sentiment on these issues, challenging communal norms around marital fidelity and accountability.
