The former head of the International Monetary Fund, Dominique Strauss-Kahn, could be released from New York's Rikers Island jail as soon as Friday, to await trial on sexual assault charges while on an electronic monitor.
A judge granted his bail request Thursday, under the condition that he put up $1 million bail and another $5 million bond secured by a family home. The French national is also to be watched by an armed guard while living in a rented New York apartment. He has surrendered his passport to U.S. authorities.
The conditions are intended to guarantee that Strauss-Kahn will appear in court for the trial on charges he sexually assaulted a hotel maid on Saturday. He could face decades in prison if convicted. Prosecutors opposed bail, arguing that Strauss-Kahn has the wealth and connections needed to leave the United States.
Strauss-Kahn resigned his IMF post late Wednesday. He strongly denies the charges, for which he was indicted (formally charged) Thursday. An arraignment hearing is set for June 6.
Strauss-Kahn is a former French finance minister, and had been expected to declare his candidacy for the French presidency soon. News accounts before his arrest said he had a chance to oust current President Nicolas Sarkozy.
Former IMF Head Could Be Released from Jail Friday
