The Wakayama Prefectural Police recently arrested your name anime movie producer Kouichirou Itou for allegedly soliciting a minor for inappropriate photos.
As of press time, the story is still in development. While this issue is still going, the anime film’s director Makoto Shinkai released a statement on Twitter (now X,) in regards to his recent arrest. His statement was released just two days after Itou’s arrest.
In a report by Anime News Network, the translation of his tweet are as follows:
“I was shocked to see the news about the arrest of a person involved in the production of my movies. First and foremost, I would like to express my deepest sympathies to the victims. Also, I am truly sorry for causing anxiety to everyone who loves and supports my work.
I personally believe the value of the work will not be harmed by the recent incident, but I think it is natural for it to be viewed with disbelief. That is very frustrating and sad.”
Shinkai’s statement did not bluntly mentioned Itou by name in the post that he mad. Knowing how recent this tweet was posted, it’s no surprise that he is talking about him. In the same post, he also gave his condolences to the possible victim Itou was charged of soliciting child pornography and nude pictures from, and this is also a gesture to acknowledge the victims of child pornography.
Shinkai also said that the only that this incident will not stain the reputation of the movies Itou have produced with him as director. However, he acknowledges and accepts that some may not see the movies the same away again after this incident and will leave to the preference of the viewer.
Japanese authorities said in a recent report that Itou request the girl for her pictures in September 2021 with full awareness that the girl was still a minor during this period. The crime was discovered as part of a different prostitution investigation and they are still in search if there are other possible victims that were involved with Itou. A Japanese news outlet said in a February 2022 report that Itou allegedly paid the minor 12,500 yen ($83 USD) in electronic payment for the content.
Police have also found other videos and photos on Itou’s computer and investigation is still ongoing.
Source: Makoto Shinkai Twitter, ANN
