Sega announced today that it has halted Japanese sales of Judgment, the latest action-adventure game from the developer of the Yakuza series.
The reason behind this sudden decision is the fact that Pierre Taki, whose voice and likeness are used in the game as character Kyohei Hamura, was arrested as a suspect for the usage or possession of drugs. While this may not sound like a reason to stop selling a game, similar occurrences are common in Japan’s entertainment business.
The Mainichi News reports that 51-year-old Taki confessed to using a small amount of cocaine, and police are currently searching for further evidence. If prosecuted, Taki could face up to seven years in prison.
Source: IGN.com Yakuza Spin-off Judgment Pulled from Sale in Japan After Drugs Scandal