Your Name producer faces 6 years in prison for child prostitution case involving over 100 victims 

In the ongoing trial of Koichiro Ito, Japanese prosecutors are seeking a 6-year prison sentence (source: NHK News). Ito, who was the producer of acclaimed animated films such as Your Name, Suzume and Garden of Words, is accused of rape, child pornography law violations and child prostitution law violations. 

The anime producer was initially arrested by Japanese police in February 2024 for soliciting nude photographs of a minor. Further investigation revealed that Ito had paid for sex with a 15-year-old schoolgirl in 2023, and his charges have since multiplied. On January 7, the prosecution stated that Ito “gave large amounts of money to more than 100 people, had sexual relations with them, and filmed and collected the footage” (source: NTV). The acts were deemed to be “cunning and malicious,” with the prosecution arguing that Ito used his financial power to take advantage of the victims’ immaturity in a crime completely driven by his sexual desires.

Ito and his defense initially denied some of the charges, but later admitted to all of them. The defense is now seeking a suspended sentence for Ito, arguing that he has settled with two of the victims and is currently receiving counseling at a medical institution. The verdict of the trial is expected to be handed down on February 28.  

Film director Makoto Shinkai, who worked closely with Ito on anime like Your Name, commented on initial reports of the producer’s arrest back in February 2024, expressing shock at the news and offering condolences to the victims.