Japanese Top Star Faces Harsh Detention Conditions Amid Drug Probe and Car Crash Scandal
Japanese actress Hirosue Ryoko has been under the spotlight after her recent arrest, which followed a car accident and alleged assault of a medical worker. She is currently being detained for 10 days, from April 10 to April 19, for investigation over suspected drug involvement, a case that has drawn significant public attention across Japan.
Hirosue Ryoko Faces Detention and Possible Charges Amid Growing Scandal
Hirosue is being held in a detention center in Shizuoka Prefecture. According to Sports Japan, police representatives emphasized that no privileges or exceptions are being made for the actress. She must follow the same strict detention rules as any other arrestee.
Authorities explained that detainees who have not yet stood trial or received a sentence, such as Hirosue, are required to keep their own cash and use it to purchase basic daily necessities, such as toothbrushes, towels, soap, and notebooks. Even when using pens, detainees must register for temporary use and return them promptly due to safety regulations banning sharp objects in cells.
Clothing with drawstrings is also prohibited in detention. As a result, Hirosue is reportedly not allowed to wear a bra while in custody. Access to water is restricted as well; outside of the summer season, detainees like Hirosue are permitted to shower only once per week.
Although Japan’s detention system is generally known for its humane standards, NHK reports that the sudden loss of personal freedom is a severe shock for the former top actress. If formally charged, Hirosue’s living conditions in prison could become even more difficult. Sources suggest she is being advised to mentally prepare for a possible prison sentence at her upcoming trial.
Hirosue is expected to be prosecuted for dangerous driving resulting in an accident, a serious offense under Japanese law that typically carries heavy penalties. If convicted, she could face up to 15 years in prison and a fine of 500,000 JYP (approximately $3,500 USD).
Career Fallout and Public Reaction as Investigation Continues
According to the police report, no brake marks were found at the scene of the April 7 crash, where Hirosue’s car rear-ended another vehicle in a tunnel. Her vehicle also lacked a dashboard camera. So far, initial tests show no signs of drug or alcohol use at the time of the crash and assault. However, the final verdict will depend on whether investigators uncover evidence of substance abuse or erratic behavior linked to drug use.
Given the gravity of her legal troubles, experts believe Hirosue is unlikely to make a return to the entertainment industry. She previously faced public backlash over an affair scandal that forced her into a nearly three-year hiatus.
As of April 12, multiple event organizers have canceled scheduled appearances featuring the actress, and production teams have indefinitely postponed filming projects involving her. Now, with criminal charges potentially looming, Hirosue faces one of the most difficult chapters of her life, both legally and professionally.
