Fukuoka Stock Exchange Official Arrested for Allegedly Taking Upskirt Photos of High School Students
A high-ranking official from the Fukuoka Stock Exchange has been arrested after allegedly capturing upskirt images of two female high school students aboard a train in southwestern Japan.
Shinichi Sakai, 62, who holds the position of executive director at the exchange, is accused of secretly photographing the 17-year-old girls with a tablet while they were seated across from him on a train in Fukuoka Prefecture.
The incident occurred around 12:50 p.m. on Tuesday, when the two girls heard the unmistakable sound of a camera shutter. The girls immediately reported the matter to station personnel after Sakai exited the train at Mikunigaoka Station. Further investigations revealed that photos of the girls were found on Sakai's device.
Sakai, however, has denied the allegations, claiming that he only took pictures of the girls' feet. The Fukuoka Stock Exchange has expressed regret, emphasizing that they are treating the situation with utmost seriousness and will guarantee that all employees adhere to the necessary standards.
Upskirting Law in Japan
In Japan, upskirting, which refers to the act of taking covert photographs or videos under someone's clothing without their consent, is considered a serious offense.
Legal Framework: Upskirting is specifically prohibited under Japan's Penal Code and Anti-Peeping Law, which make it illegal to secretly take photographs or videos of people in private situations or in places where they expect privacy, including public transport or other public spaces. The laws are part of broader efforts to combat voyeurism and protect personal privacy.
In 2019, Japan passed a new law that specifically criminalized upskirting, making it illegal to take photos of someone's underwear without their consent. This was a response to growing concerns about the widespread issue of upskirting in public places, particularly on trains and in crowded areas.
Penalties: The penalty for upskirting in Japan can be severe. Those convicted may face up to one year in prison or a fine of up to ¥1 million (approximately $7,000 USD). If the act is considered a more serious offense, or if there are aggravating circumstances (e.g., repeat offenders), penalties could be higher.
Given the severity of the crime, individuals accused of upskirting in Japan are strongly advised to seek legal counsel as the consequences can significantly impact their future.
Upskirting Law in the United States
In the United States, upskirting—taking unsolicited photos or videos under a person’s clothing without their consent—is illegal, but laws vary by state. Many states have specific laws addressing voyeurism or the illegal recording of intimate areas, which includes upskirting. In some states, upskirting is explicitly prohibited under laws related to privacy or sexual exploitation, while other states may rely on broader voyeurism or harassment statutes.
For example:
- Massachusetts was one of the first states to specifically criminalize upskirting in 2016.
- California has laws against the recording or photographing of someone in a state of undress, which would apply to upskirting as well.
- New York and other states have voyeurism laws that could also cover upskirting behavior.
Penalties for upskirting in the U.S. range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the state and whether the offender has a history of similar offences. In some instances, those convicted could face significant fines and prison sentences.
