In Kanagawa Prefecture, police apprehended Scott Andrew Smith, a 44-year-old resident of Isehara, on February 17. Smith is under investigation for allegedly stealing a 235-yen snack from a convenience store in January and for assaulting a male store clerk who confronted him.
Following the arrest, Smith reportedly explained to investigators that he initially came to Japan on a holiday and later opted to stay. Authorities have raised suspicions that he had been living in Japan for a significant period prior to the incident.
Earlier in December, officials from Camp Fuji—a U.S. Marine Corps base in neighboring Shizuoka Prefecture—requested Kanagawa police to detain the suspect, suspecting that he had deserted from the military. A representative from Camp Fuji confirmed their awareness of the arrest and stated that they are collaborating closely with local law enforcement to further investigate the matter.
6 Comments
KittyKat
This makes me feel unsafe in my own community. We need stricter laws to prevent this from happening again. 🔒
BuggaBoom
What a shame. He was given the opportunity to live and work in Japan, and this is how he repays the kindness? 😤
Noir Black
Living in Japan illegally and then committing crimes? This is unacceptable. He should face the full consequences of his actions. 😠
KittyKat
I hope the victim is okay. This is a terrifying experience for anyone to go through. 🙏
Noir Black
This is an opportunity to learn more about the challenges faced by refugees and immigrants in Japan. We need to do better to support them. 🌎
BuggaBoom
I hope this serves as a warning to others who think they can get away with breaking the law. 👮