Popular anime filmmaker Makoto Shinkai has released an official statement following the recent arrest of anime producer Koichiro Ito. The producer allegedly received explicit photos from a minor. In his tweet, Shinkai has apologized to the victims who have been affected by Ito’s crime and apologized to fans for the disturbance this news has caused to those who support his work. You can read the full translated statement below:
I am very shocked to see the news report of the arrest of the person involved in my works. First and foremost, I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the victims. I am also very sorry for the anxiety this incident has caused to those who love and support us.
I believe that the value of the work will not be damaged by this incident, but it is only natural that you may feel distrustful. I am very frustrated and saddened by this.
It is worth noting that Koichiro Ito has worked as a producer on several of Makoto Shinkai’s films. These include Children Who Chase Lost Voices (2011), The Garden of Words (2013), Your Name (2016), Weathering With You (2019) and Suzume (2022). Other anime works Ito served as producer and screenwriter include After School Midnighters (2012) and Hoshizora Kiseki (2006).
The anime producer was arrested by Japanese authorities earlier this week due to possession of explicit photos from a minor. According to initial police investigations, Ito met a 15-year-old female high school student in September 2021 on social media. During this time, Ito received explicit photos of the minor female student and had the photos saved. His particular law offense falls under Japan’s Child Pornography Prohibition Act (Article 7) which outlaws any production, transport, import, and export, as well as possession of child pornography.
Source: Official X (Twitter)