Ryuji Imaichi, a 38-year-old member of the popular dance and vocal group Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS, has been referred to prosecutors on suspicion of assault and threats against a taxi driver, authorities revealed on July 31. The Tokyo Metropolitan Police disclosed the development based on interviews with investigators.
Incident Overview
According to the referral, the incident took place around 5 a.m. on April 5 while Imaichi was riding in a taxi in Tokyo. He allegedly threatened the male driver by saying things like “I’ll kill you,” pulled the driver’s arm, and struck the acrylic divider installed between the front and rear seats. Although the driver sustained no physical injuries, Imaichi was referred for prosecution on charges of assault and making criminal threats.
At the time of the incident, Imaichi was reportedly returning home from a restaurant and had consumed alcohol. He was accompanied by a male acquaintance during the approximately 10-minute taxi ride in which the incident occurred.
According to investigators, Imaichi explained during questioning that he “had an argument with someone before getting in the taxi and was feeling irritated,” shedding light on the possible circumstances that led to the incident. The police attached an opinion recommending “appropriate action” and forwarded the case to the prosecutor’s office, leaving the decision on criminal charges to them.
Legal Procedures Ahead
A referral to prosecutors is a procedure in which the police, after completing a voluntary investigation based on a complaint or suspicion, submit the case and evidence to the public prosecutor’s office. The Tokyo District Public Prosecutors Office will now take over the case and determine whether to press formal charges, pursue a summary indictment with a fine, or dismiss the case entirely. If the latter occurs, Imaichi would not face criminal liability.
Who Is Ryuji Imaichi?
Ryuji Imaichi joined “Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS from EXILE TRIBE” in 2010 as one of the group’s vocalists. The group made its first appearance at NHK’s annual New Year’s Eve music program, Kōhaku Uta Gassen, in 2012, and won the Grand Prize at the 56th Japan Record Awards in 2014 with their hit song “R.Y.U.S.E.I.”
Since 2018, Imaichi has also pursued a solo music career and has been active in various musical endeavors. Sandaime J SOUL BROTHERS enjoys widespread popularity not only in Japan but also across Asia.
As the case develops, attention is now focused on how this incident may impact Imaichi’s future activities in the entertainment industry, with the final decision resting in the hands of the prosecutors.
