FUKUOKA (TR) – Police here have concluded their investigation into a 78-year-old man accused of a multi-city burglary spree, who told investigators his physical limitations dictated his choice of targets, reports Fuji News Network (June 8).
Sadayoshi Takemura, an unemployed resident of Kitakyushu City’s Kokuraminami Ward, was initially arrested in January for breaking into a residence in Fukuoka City’s Higashi Ward and making off with approximately 23,000 yen in cash.
According to police, subsequent investigations linked Takemura to a total of 17 break-ins and attempted burglaries between September and January.
The crime spree spanned Kokuraminami Ward, Fukuoka City, Koga City, and Shimonoseki City in neighboring Yamaguchi Prefecture. The total damage, including stolen cash, is estimated at 600,000 yen. Police have forwarded five of the cases to prosecutors, officially closing their probe.
“My legs and back are weak”
Takemura’s modus operandi was notably shaped by his advanced age. Investigators revealed that the suspect would travel by JR trains to seek out targets, specifically choosing homes close to the station because “walking is too hard.”
When targeting apartment complexes, Takemura exclusively hit ground-floor units. “My legs and back are weak, so I couldn’t go up to the second floor,” he told police.
The elderly thief gained entry by smashing window panes with rocks found near targets. His involvement eventually surfaced after detectives analyzed security camera footage.
Upon his arrest, Takemura admitted to the allegations, revealing a lifelong history of crime.
“I’ve been getting my hands dirty with theft since I was in my teens,” Takemura told investigators. “I did it to earn living expenses, but I also spent the money on gambling and entertainment.”
