Your Name Producer Would Be Sentenced To Prison

Renowned Japanese producer Kouichirou Itou, who worked on the hit film “Your Name (Kimi no Na wa.),” faces trial for sexual crimes and child prostitution. The prosecution in Japan has requested a sentence of 6 years in prison, and the final ruling is expected to be issued on February 28.

Itou was reportedly accused of paying 20,000 yen (approximately $150) to a 15-year-old high school student in 2023 to commit illicit sexual acts. In addition, it was discovered that he forced another minor to take nude photographs and send them to her mobile phone. At trial, the defendant admitted most of the charges, and although he initially denied part of them, his defense ended up acknowledging all of the facts.

During the hearings, the prosecution revealed that Itou had sexual relations with more than 100 women, to whom he paid considerable sums of money. In addition, it was noted that he recorded the meetings to create a personal collection of videos. Prosecutors emphasized that the accused abused his economic position to commit the crimes, describing his responsibility as especially serious.

The prosecution stated that Itou's actions represent an abuse of power and economic resources, and for this reason they requested a sentence of 6 years in prison. The case has generated outrage in Japan, where many criticize the light sentences for sexual crimes and the loopholes in the judicial system that allow such abuses. Debate has also arisen about the impact this scandal could have on the legacy of “Your Name,” one of the most iconic films in Japanese animation.

The final sentencing, scheduled for February 28, will be decisive not only for the accused, but also for the landscape of justice in sexual abuse cases in Japan.

«If it is child prostitution, a sentence of 6 years is to be expected».
«I thought it would be just 1 or 2 people, but it turns out it was over 100! Sexual crimes against minors in Japan are absurdly mild».
«Japan is a country where both laws and society are lenient towards sexual offenders who commit l_licon crimes. In practice, this does not affect them at all.».
«The mass media is hardly covering this case, why?».
«Does this mean 'Your Name.' Can it no longer be broadcast on television?».
«I think asking for only 6 years in prison is too lenient. Although perhaps inevitable under current laws, they should reform the legal system so that sexual crimes and those involving minors are punished more severely.».
«He didn't have normal relationships at an appropriate age, so even at 53 he is still childish. Furthermore, since his mental age is still that of a child, he can only interact with minors.».
«When it comes to minors, it is automatically rape without consent. Those old men who try to blame the minor by saying 'she was the one who looked for him' should feel ashamed».