Jeremy O Harris Freed in Japan After Drug Smuggling Arrest
Jeremy O Harris has been released from a Japanese prison following an arrest due to drug smuggling allegations. He was detained in November but released without charges and plans to stay in Japan for his work.
Playwright Jeremy O Harris has been released from a Japanese detention center after being held on suspicion of drug smuggling. Harris, known for his acclaimed work on stage and screen, was taken into custody on November 16 at Naha Airport in Okinawa. Authorities reportedly found 0.78 grams of a crystal substance containing MDMA in a tote bag during a customs inspection.
Detainment and Release
Harris had traveled to Okinawa for leisure, flying in from the United Kingdom with a layover in Taiwan. Japanese officials arrested him under the country’s strict Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Act. He spent nearly three weeks in custody as the investigation unfolded. According to a spokesperson at the Tomishiro Police Station in Tomigusuku City, Harris was released on December 8 without any charges filed against him.
Plans to Remain in Japan
Despite the ordeal, Harris intends to stay in Japan to continue his professional pursuits. A representative for the writer stated that he plans to remain in the country for “writing and researching” related to an upcoming project. The arrest and subsequent release have not deterred his commitment to his work.
Career Highlights and Recent Projects
Harris is best known for creating the 2018 play Slave Play, which received twelve Tony Award nominations and widespread critical praise. He also co-wrote the screenplay for the A24 film Zola and served as a co-producer for four episodes in the second season of HBO ’s Euphoria . Most recently, Harris took on a role in the film Erupcja , directed by Pete Ohs and starring Charli XCX. The movie premiered at the Red Sea Film Festival in Jeddah earlier this month, where Harris was expected to attend.