Former timelesz member Inomata Shuto (猪俣周杜) was not prosecuted over allegations that he assaulted a female acquaintance, and STARTO decided to terminate his contract. At a press conference, Kikuchi Fuma (菊池風磨) apologised and spoke about his regret over how the group had been managed.
On 21 October 2026, the Tokyo District Public Prosecutors Office decided not to prosecute Inomata Shuto (猪俣周杜), under a deferred prosecution arrangement. It was reported that he joined timelesz in February 2025, was arrested by the Metropolitan Police Department on 19 September 2026 and released on 25 September. In response, STARTO ENTERTAINMENT decided at a board meeting held the same day to terminate Inomata’s contract.
The contract termination was officially announced on 30 September, together with an apology. On 1 October, Kikuchi Fuma (菊池風磨), regarded as a leader of timelesz, held a press conference with the other members. Kikuchi strongly condemned Inomata’s conduct and also discussed his own approach to management.
The article points to the weight of the role and responsibilities of middle managers and has also drawn readers’ attention to where responsibility for apologies lies within an organisation. It also notes that the absence of management executives from the press conference has prompted discussion among readers.
Further reports are expected to focus on the course of events, the impact of the contract termination, and the background to the organisation’s apologies and explanations.