Autism Crime Japan

Prosecutors Seek Death Penalty for Autistic Defendant over Fatal Crossbow Attack in Japan

Japanese public prosecutors on Wednesday sought the death penalty for Hideaki Nozu, who has been charged with killing three members of his family with a crossbow at his home in Takarazuka, Hyogo Prefecture, in June 2020.The prosecution said that Nozu's autism spectrum disorder did not significantly affect his motivation and that his acts were planned. The defendant maintained the capacity to control his actions and was fully competent, as he hesitated to carry out his plan, it said.

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by Michael Gillan Peckitt
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From Jiji

October 15 2025

KOBE – Japanese public prosecutors on Wednesday sought the death penalty for Hideaki Nozu, who has been charged with killing three members of his family with a crossbow at his home in Takarazuka, Hyogo Prefecture, in June 2020.
   At a hearing at Kobe District Court, the defense called for a prison sentence of 25 years to be given to the 28-year-old defendant. Sentencing will take place on Oct. 31.
   The prosecution said that Nozu’s autism spectrum disorder did not significantly affect his motivation and that his acts were planned.
   The defendant maintained the capacity to control his actions and was fully competent, as he hesitated to carry out his plan, it said.
   The prosecution added that he treated life extraordinarily lightly as his acts were based on his wish to be sentenced to death. “His responsibility is incomparably great,” it said.

1 comment on “Prosecutors Seek Death Penalty for Autistic Defendant over Fatal Crossbow Attack in Japan”

  1. Pingback: Prosecutors Seek Death Penalty for Autistic Defendant over Fatal Crossbow Attack in Japan [Podcast Episode] – Barrier Free Japan

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