Self-imposed. He liked that option better than the others, which isn't a luxury most criminals get.

"Exile" is far, far from "imprisoned".

Many people, introverts, like me, are more annoyed by people than needing company. I've dreamed about living in exile out in the wilderness (it's too much effort and risk for me so I haven't). Other's have done it voluntarily.

It's vastly better than prison.