Aぇ! group Member Richard Keita Kusama (29) Released After Arrest on Public Indecency Charge

Richard Keita Kusama (29), a member of the popular idol group "Aぇ! group," was released today, the 6th, by the Tokyo District Public Prosecutors Office, following his arrest by the Metropolitan Police Department on suspicion of public indecency. After his release, Kusama deeply bowed to reporters and, with tears in his eyes, apologized, saying, "I sincerely apologize for causing such a disturbance."

Kusama had been arrested on the 4th on public indecency charges but was released after a short period. Following this news, "Richard Keita Kusama" trended on SNS platform X (formerly Twitter), where various opinions are being exchanged.

Many users expressed sympathy and concern for Kusama's appearance upon his release. Comments included, "Did he drink too much? Somehow, I feel sorry for him…😢" and "Seeing his apology, I feel a bit sorry for him😢." Some even defended him by sharing their own experiences, such as, "I feel sorry for him because the whole situation is just too uncool. I've also gotten completely wasted and ended up naked, so I can't speak ill of him."

Furthermore, many voices are hoping for his return to activities. While some fans sent messages of support like, "Everyone, can't we forgive him? His tearful remorse was clearly conveyed. Please reflect deeply so this never happens again. Let's drink in moderation, okay? I pray for your quick return to work. Richard Keita Kusama, fight on!✊", there were also tolerant opinions such as, "He's probably received enough social punishment for the crime. I hope society is forgiving enough for him to try again."

However, some harsh comments were also seen, such as, "Never appear on TV or in public again💢 Goodbye👋," and others urged caution, advising, "If you have something to protect and you're drinking out, please be careful once more."

Kusama's arrest and release sent shockwaves through the public, and an official statement from his agency regarding his future activities, as well as comments from Kusama himself, are now awaited.

The Context

"Aぇ! group" is a popular idol group formed by what was formerly Johnny & Associates (now STARTO ENTERTAINMENT), making their CD debut in May 2024. Members are often active in various media including TV dramas, variety shows, and stage plays. Richard Keita Kusama is known for his unique personality and mixed Japanese-American heritage, often appearing on variety programs.

Public indecency (公然わいせつ, kōzen waisetsu) in Japan, while a criminal offense, can range in severity. Often, cases involving individuals who are heavily intoxicated and remove their clothes in public are treated with a degree of leniency, especially if there is no malicious intent or harm to others, leading to a quick release or a non-prosecution decision, particularly for first-time offenders. However, for a public figure like an idol, even a minor incident can lead to significant social backlash and impact their career.