Jeremy O. Harris Arrested in Japan for Alleged Drug Smuggling

Prominent American playwright and actor Jeremy O. Harris was arrested in Japan on November 16, 2023, for allegedly smuggling the psychedelic drug MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy. Authorities at Naha Airport on the southern island of Okinawa apprehended Harris after discovering 0.78 grams (0.0275 ounces) of the substance in a container within a tote bag he was carrying.

According to Tatsunori Fukuda, a spokesperson for Okinawa Regional Customs, Harris had arrived in Naha for sightseeing after departing from London’s Heathrow Airport two days earlier, with a transit stop at Taoyuan International Airport in Taiwan. Harris, who is 36 years old, was taken into custody immediately and is currently being held by the Tomishiro police. The police have filed a criminal complaint with the Naha District Prosecutors’ Office, which is conducting further investigations.

Initial reports indicate that Japanese authorities did not find any additional drugs in Harris’s luggage and believe that the MDMA was intended for personal use. Investigations are ongoing, and officials have not disclosed whether Harris has made any statements regarding the allegations. There has been no immediate comment from his representatives.

Japanese law permits authorities to detain a suspect for up to 23 days before an indictment can be made. This process has drawn criticism for its potential to prolong pretrial detention, especially if the accused opts to remain silent or denies the charges. Those convicted of drug smuggling in Japan can face severe penalties, including multi-year prison sentences.

Harris gained significant recognition in the theatre world with his acclaimed play “Slave Play,” which premiered off-Broadway in 2018 while he was still a graduate student at the Yale School of Drama. The production stirred controversy with its bold exploration of race, class, and sexuality, and it subsequently moved to Broadway, earning a nomination for a Tony Award for Best Play in 2019.

In addition to his work as a playwright, Harris has appeared in smaller acting roles and made cameo appearances, including a notable role as himself in the rebooted version of “Gossip Girl.” He has also served as a co-producer for several episodes of HBO’s popular series “Euphoria.”

As the situation develops, further updates regarding the legal proceedings against Harris are anticipated.