US Marine Charged with Murder and Theft in Okinawa
A 20-year-old US Marine stationed in Okinawa has been indicted for the alleged strangling and robbery of a Japanese woman, prompting protests and diplomatic tension.
A US Marine Corps private, Devin Jacob Ballard, 20, has been formally indicted by Japanese prosecutors for the alleged murder and theft of 39-year-old Anna Yagi at a hotel in Naha, Okinawa, on 3 October. According to the indictment, investigators say Ballard strangled Yagi with a telephone cord and then took her backpack and wallet. Security footage is reported to show a man entering the hotel with the victim and leaving alone with her belongings.
Ballard, who is stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, has denied the allegations, though investigators say he has made statements suggesting involvement. The Marine Corps said it is "actively cooperating with Japanese authorities, in response to allegations of serious criminal actions by a Marine" and extended condolences to the victim’s family.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi described the crime as "brutal and heinous" and said the Japanese government has lodged a "strong" protest with the United States, calling for "strict disciplinary action against US military personnel and thorough measures to prevent a recurrence of such incidents".
The case adds to a series of incidents involving US service members in Okinawa, where roughly 55,000 US troops are based. Okinawa Governor Genta Koja said the alleged crime reflects a lack of discipline and reiterated calls for the United States to take preventive action. About 100 people protested in Naha and Tokyo earlier this month, and social-media users expressed anger and demanded justice.