A U.S. Marine, Michael Hofmaster, has been indicted by prosecutors in Okinawa Prefecture for alleged sexual assault resulting in injury. The incident occurred on June 21 when Hofmaster is accused of sexually assaulting a woman in a room in the northern part of Okinawa. The victim was pushed onto a bed and suffered injuries to her lower body. Hofmaster, a 20-year-old lance corporal of the Marines, has denied part of the charges, claiming he had the woman’s consent.
The two individuals knew each other through social media and had met several times. After the assault, the woman sought medical attention and the case was reported to the prefectural police. The Japanese government has been criticized for not sharing information on U.S. military-related incidents with local governments in the past. However, in this latest case, the prefectural police promptly notified the prefectural government on the day the papers were sent to prosecutors.
It is essential to address and prosecute cases of sexual assault swiftly and effectively, ensuring justice for the victims and accountability for the perpetrators.