Wakayama Prefectural Police arrests anime producer Koichiro Ito Suspected of soliciting a minor to take nude photos on February 21st. As the story progresses, Mr. Ito’s contemporary and frequent collaborator, Makoto Shinkai (your name., Sparrow) issued a statement regarding the arrest. twitter.
I was shocked to see the reports from people involved in the work. 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.
— Makoto Shinkai (@shinkaimakoto) February 23, 2024
I was shocked to see the news that someone involved in the production of my film had been arrested. First of all, I would like to express my deepest sympathies to those affected. Also, I sincerely apologize for causing concern to everyone who loves and supports my work.
Personally, I believe that the value of the work will not be diminished by this incident, but I think it is natural for it to be viewed with disbelief. That is very frustrating and sad.
© Makoto Shinkai
Shinkai’s statement came two days after Ito’s arrest. Director Shinkai did not mention Ito by name in his tweet, but he was likely referring to Ito, who was the only staff member on his film and who was recently arrested.
In the same tweet, director Shinkai expressed his condolences to the victims of Ito’s indictment for soliciting child pornography, and expressed his attitude of acknowledging the victims of child pornography. Director Shinkai also said that he hopes the arrest does not damage the reputation of the film he made with director Ito. It’s a matter of viewer preference, but he acknowledges and accepts that some people may not be able to view his films the same way in the future.
According to authorities, Ito asked the girl for a photo in September 2021, knowing that she was a minor at the time. Police announced that Ito’s alleged crime was discovered as part of a separate prostitution investigation. Police are investigating whether there are any other victims involved with Ito.
TBS According to news reports on February 22nd, police say Ito is suspected of paying a minor 12,500 yen (approximately 83 US dollars) in electronic money for the photo. TBS Police also said they found other videos and images on Ito’s computer and are investigating them.
Mr. Ito has served as a producer on numerous works. Makoto Shinkaiworks (including the second work) The place we promised when we were young, Children chasing lost voices, Garden of Wordshis blockbuster hit your name.and two subsequent films Weathering With You and Sparrow.
sauce: Makoto Shinkai‘s twitter account
