394.1121 Young, James/34: Telegram
The Ambassador in Japan (Grew) to the Secretary of State
Tokyo, March 15, 1940—9
p.m.
[Received March 15—10:20 a.m.]
[Received March 15—10:20 a.m.]
180. Our 166, March 11, 7 p.m.
- 1.
- Young’s trial was concluded with today’s proceedings in which were heard the testimony of a character witness, Seishichi Iwasaki who is a prominent industrialist; the procurator’s charge; and lawyers’ pleas.
- 2.
- The procurator demanded a sentence of 10 months imprisonment and said that he had taken into consideration special factors such as Young’s status as a foreign correspondent; his lack of malicious intent; and his unfamiliarity with the law.
- 3.
- The lawyer’s defense was as might be expected largely concerned with extenuating factors such as those mentioned above, but considerable stress was laid on the importance of the case in its effect on American public opinion in the present international situation. Young’s part in influencing the Hearst press toward adopting a favorable attitude towards Japan was also emphasized.
- 4.
- The sentence demanded is lighter than we had anticipated and is believed to be a favorable indication of the court’s attitude.
- 5.
- Sentence will be pronounced March 22. In the meantime further effort to arrange bail is being made.
Grew