Your Name Producer Arrested for Child Abuse Could Face 6 Years in Jail

Koichiro Ito, known for producing such hits as Your Name and The Garden of Words, faces a trial in Japan that could result in a sentence of 6 years in prison. According to reports from NHK News, the producer is accused of serious crimes, including violations of child prostitution and child pornography laws.

The investigation began in February 2024, when Ito was arrested after being accused of soliciting intimate photographs of a minor. It was later discovered that in 2023, he paid to have intimate relations with a 15-year-old student.

Your Name Producer Arrested for Child Abuse Could Face 6 Years in Prison

During the trial, the Public Prosecutor’s Office revealed that Ito offered large sums of money to more than 100 people, having intimate relations with them and recording the encounters for his own use.

Prosecutors described his actions as “cunning and malicious,” arguing that he exploited the immaturity of his victims out of pure sexual interest.

Despite initially denying some of the charges, Ito admitted to all of the crimes during the trial. His defense is now seeking a suspended sentence, arguing that he has already reached agreements with two victims and is receiving psychological counseling at a specialized clinic.

The final sentence in the case is scheduled for February 28. Meanwhile, Makoto Shinkai, a renowned director who collaborated with Ito on projects such as Your Name, expressed shock and sadness for the victims upon learning of the charges in February 2024.

via Voce Sabia Anime