Tokyo Public Prosecutor's Office today (September 22nd) indicted actor Hiroki Shimizu (26) on charges of violating the Narcotics Control Law, following his arrest for possessing dried cannabis.

Arrest and Re-arrest Details

Shimizu was initially arrested on September 3rd for possessing dried cannabis at his home in Suginami Ward, Tokyo, in July. Subsequently, the Metropolitan Police Department re-arrested him for possessing 0.4 grams of dried cannabis found at his residence during a search on September 3rd.

During police questioning, Shimizu reportedly admitted to the charges, stating, I first smoked cannabis around age 20 when I went to Los Angeles for language study abroad, and The amount of cannabis I smoked increased from around age 24 when my income grew.

Shimizu's legal team is expected to request bail from the Tokyo District Court.

This case underscores the ongoing efforts by Japanese authorities to enforce strict drug laws. The actor's admission to long-term use, starting from a young age abroad, highlights potential challenges in drug education and prevention, particularly for individuals exposed to different legal frameworks overseas. The legal proceedings will now move forward, with the public awaiting further developments regarding his bail and eventual trial.