Polanski released on bail

After two months in a Swiss jail, the director was released...

18:05 04 December 2009

Oscar winning director Roman Polanski has been released on bail, it has been confirmed.

After spending two months in a Swiss jail, Polanski has been transferred to his private chalet where he is under house arrest.

The 76-year-old filmmaker was released from prison after posting a $4.5 million (£2.7 million) bail. Under the terms of his release, he must wear an electronic monitoring and remain in the property. He has also had to surrender his travel and identity documents.

A statement by the Swiss govermnent said: "Roman Polanski was today released from custody pending extradition and transferred to Gstaad, where he is under house arrest at his chalet,"

Polanski has been joined by his wife at the property, French actress Emmanuelle Seigner, and their two young children, while he fights extradition to the US.

The arrest came 32 years after he was sentenced for having unlawful sex with a minor. Polanski plead guilty, but fled the United States on the eve of his sentencing fearing a jail term. He has never returned to US soil.

U.S. authorities have said he would now face a jail sentence of two years.

He will be able to receive guests, hold parties, and work on his movies in his luxury home in the upmarket ski resort of Gstaad, Switzerland while the decision is made.