TOKYO (TR) – A court here this this week handed the former secretary-general of incorporated association Japan Refuge a suspended prison term for the possession and use of cocaine, reports the Sankei Shimbun (Mar. 12).
At the Tokyo District Court on Thursday, presiding judge Tomohiko Shinomiya handed Yoshihide Tanaka, 44, a two-year term, suspended for four years. The prosecution had requested a term of two years and six months.
According to the verdict, on or around May 18, 2025, Tanaka snorted cocaine at his home in capital and possessed a total of approximately 2 grams on the same day and May 23.
During the trial, Tanaka’s defense attorney argued for his innocence, saying that the police questioning that led to the discovery was illegal because it continued despite the defendant’s clear intention to refuse.
However, judge Shinomiya rejected this assertion, stating that it did not exceed the permissible scope of voluntary questioning.
Furthermore, he criticized the defendant for “showing little resistance to illegal drugs and an affinity for them.” He also noted that he encouraged acquaintances to use cocaine.
Japan Refuge
According to its website, Nippon Kakekomidera (Japan Refuge) has been operating under its current name since 2011. Located in the Kabukicho red-light district, it provides advice on a wide range of issues including domestic violence, school refusal, poverty and drug abuse.
It recently has also provided support to young people known as “Toyoko Kids,” who congregate in Kabukicho.
