Giants’ Abe Cleared in Daughter Case: Prosecutors Drop Charges, June 16

Tokyo District Prosecutors dropped charges against Yomiuri Giants manager Shinnosuke Abe on June 15 after he was arrested for assaulting his 18-year-old daughter in May. Abe, 47, was arrested on May 25 after grabbing and pushing down his daughter at his home in Shibuya. The case highlights Japan’s use of prosecutorial discretion in family violence cases and Abe’s immediate resignation as manager.

What Happened on May 25

Abe grabbed his daughter’s chest area and pushed her down at his Shibuya home on May 25 around 7 p.m. He was trying to stop a fight between his two daughters when his 18-year-old daughter talked back to him. Abe was drinking at the time. Police arrested him that day and released him the next morning.

Prosecutors Decide Not to Pursue Case

Tokyo District Prosecutors issued a no-prosecution order on June 15, citing the nature of the assault and circumstances after the incident. Police recommended no prosecution when they submitted the case on June 9. The daughter had no injuries from the assault.

Abe Resigns and Apologizes

Abe resigned as Giants manager on May 26, the day after his arrest. Through his lawyer, he issued a statement saying all fault lay with him and that he felt only regret. He said he caused great burden to his family and was deeply ashamed of what he lost.

What Is Prosecutorial Discretion in Japan

Japan’s legal system allows prosecutors to drop charges even when evidence exists, a practice called no-prosecution or suspended prosecution. This gives prosecutors power to consider factors beyond guilt or innocence, such as remorse, family circumstances, and the public interest. The decision does not erase the arrest record but prevents trial and conviction.

Final Thoughts

Abe’s case shows how Japan’s prosecutors can decline to pursue charges in domestic violence cases. His immediate resignation and public apology likely influenced the decision, though no-prosecution orders remain controversial in family assault cases.

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