Prosecutors Test Audio and Video Recordings for Non-Custodial Interrogations

Prosecutor General Naomi Unemoto declared on February 19 that the scope of cases subject to audio and video recording is set to expand, specifically including interrogations of suspects who are not in custody. This initiative, currently under a trial phase, comes as a response to ongoing concerns about potential misconduct during interrogations and aims to uphold higher standards of scrutiny and fairness.

At a meeting with senior prosecutors from district and high public prosecutors offices across Japan, Unemoto voiced her deep concerns over recent criticisms of interrogation methods. She underlined the importance of self-discipline among prosecutors, emphasizing that these measures would help ensure that investigative practices remain beyond reproach.

The Supreme Public Prosecutors Office is working to establish guidelines that will determine which cases will incorporate these recordings, strengthening the agency’s overall system to support proper interrogation techniques. Unemoto indicated that while current law mandates recording only under certain conditions—such as interrogations during mandatory procedures post-arrest or within the lay judge system—this pilot program will test recording practices even in cases that traditionally fall outside these parameters.

Recent cases have amplified discussions about the need for reform, including a well-publicized incident involving a former prosecutor from Osaka accused of overstepping during an interrogation. This context, along with historical issues such as evidence tampering, has contributed to the renewed push for transparency, with prosecutors recognizing the potential benefits of wider application of audio and video recording practices.