Shortly after WWII ended, the Tokyo trials began. Evidence was shown in the form of film and oral and written testimonies from people within the international zone. General Iwane Matsui was accused of "crimes against humanity" and was sentenced to death in 1948 by the Tokyo tribunal. Before his death, General Iwane Matsui shifted blame to lower ranking commanders to protect Prince Asaka. None of the members of the Imperial family were prosecuted due to the policy of Gen. Douglas MacArthur. Asaka denied the Chinese Massacre. The trials lasted two and a half years.