Roman Polanski Moves From Prison to Swiss Chalet

GSTAAD, Switzerland, Dec. 4, 2009 — -- Director Roman Polanski moved today in a police convoy from a Swiss prison to house arrest at his Alpine chalet in the posh ski resort of Gstaad.

Here at the rather quaintly named Milky Way chalet is where the Academy award-winning director will serve out the terms of his house arrest while awaiting possible extradition to the U.S., bringing to an end a 31-year stint as a fugitive, on the run from American authorities for having unlawful sex with a 13 year-old girl in 1977.

Devices have been installed at the home to ensure Polanski does not bolt. He's required to wear a tagging device so he can be monitored and will sound an alarm to the authorities if he does try to flee.

The transfer from prison occurred after the director posted a $4.5 million bail. The 76-year-old filmmaker will be allowed to conduct his personal affairs as he pleases – provided he does not leave the confines of his home.

In addition to the bail money, Polanski paid $2,000 for the installation of security devices as well as a monthly charge of $200 for the upkeep of his detention.

His simple cell in a prison just outside of Zurich could not be more different from the well-appointed three-story home he has made here in the Swiss Alps. Gstaad has long been famed as a place where the international jet-set congregate every year for skiing, schmoozing and lavish parties, taking place behind the closed doors of the magnificent chalets that grace the picturesque mountains.

The 19,000-square-foot property, which includes a garden, is nestled along a private road with a view of the surrounding countryside and snow-capped mountains. He has access to e-mail, can make private phone calls, work on film projects and even host parties. He will also be able to enjoy the company of his family and friends.