- An investigative panel found former Fukui Prefecture Governor Tatsuji Sugimoto engaged in sexual harassment.
- He sent approximately 1,000 inappropriate messages to at least four female employees, some requesting sexual relationships, and was involved in three instances of physical contact.
- The panel deemed Sugimoto's explanations unconvincing and suggested his actions may violate the Anti-Stalking Act and constitute a crime.

A: Hey! Did you hear about the former Fukui governor?
B: No! What happened? It's been a crazy week!
A: Apparently, a special panel found out he really messed up. Big time.
B: Seriously? What did he do?
A: They said he sexually harassed some female employees. A lot!
B: Wow! How many employees?
A: At least four! And they think he sent around 1,000 inappropriate messages.
B: One thousand?! That's insane! What kind of messages?
A: Some even asked for… well, you know. Plus, there were reports of physical touching too.
B: Like, really? That's awful! What did the panel say about it?
A: They said it started years ago, when he was in a different position. And it went on until just last year.
B: Crazy! Did he say anything to defend himself?
A: He claimed he didn't realize his messages were harassment and said he couldn't remember touching anyone.
B: Figures. But the panel didn’t believe him, right?
A: Exactly! They said he's totally responsible. Even though he resigned.
B: Resigned? So he quit because of this?
A: Yep. And they're even thinking his actions might be a crime now.
B: That's so sad, but also good that it’s coming to light. It’s a big deal!