Kyoto Animation Arson Suspect Faces Trial After Four Years

According to NHK reports, the suspect in the Kyoto Animation arson case, Masaji Aoba, will finally face his first trial in a public courtroom today at 9:30 AM.

The expected debate will revolve around whether "Masaji Aoba had criminal responsibility at the time," with the prosecution arguing that the defendant was fully responsible, while the defense will assert that the defendant was in a state of "mental disorder or mental impairment" at the time of the incident. Due to high public interest, the number of people applying for courtroom observation has exceeded 400, with only a few dozen general observation seats available, which will be allocated by a random drawing. The Kyoto District Court is expected to announce its verdict on this case on January 25, 2024.