Fujisawa is in his 70s and was jailed 15 times for shoplifting. He was desperate to go back
As living costs rise, a growing number of elderly people in Japan are resorting to theft. For some, prison is not a deterrent, it’s the goal.
Fujisawa, now in his seventies, has spent most of his adult life moving between prison and the outside world. Jailed 15 times for shoplifting, he amassed 35 years behind bars. With no home or family, his release meant uncertainty. Japan's ageing population and rising cost of living have led to more elderly offenders committing petty theft.
Approximately half of those caught shoplifting live alone, with many lacking sufficient pensions. Despite rehabilitation programs, former prisoners often face social stigma, making it difficult to find work and housing. Fujisawa now lives in a welfare hostel, working as a volunteer cleaner and contributing to Sanya Cafe, a charity supporting the elderly and vulnerable.
Written by urgent.news from SBS News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
