Former Japan men's national volleyball player Shunichiro Sato admitted to charges of possessing dried marijuana during his first trial on July 24, 2026 [1, 2].
The case highlights the strict legal consequences for drug offenses in Japan, where even small amounts of cannabis can lead to imprisonment for high-profile public figures.
Sato, 26 [1], was indicted after authorities confirmed he was in possession of the substance at a pachinko parlor in Itabashi Ward, Tokyo [2]. The initial discovery of the drugs occurred in May 2024 [2].
During the proceedings at the Tokyo District Court, Sato said that while his use was not frequent, he had used the drug during his time off [1]. He said, "I want to regain the trust I have lost" [1].
Prosecutors said that the nature of the crime was habitual and that Sato lacked a spirit of law-abidingness [1]. Based on these factors, the prosecution requested a sentence of one year of imprisonment [1].
In contrast, the defense team requested a suspended sentence, arguing against immediate incarceration [1]. The court will now weigh the prosecution's demand for a prison term against the defense's plea for leniency.
“"I want to regain the trust I have lost"”
This trial underscores Japan's zero-tolerance approach to cannabis, which remains strictly illegal under the Cannabis Control Act. For professional athletes, such convictions often result in immediate career termination and significant social stigma, making the request for a suspended sentence critical for Sato's potential rehabilitation and future employment.
