Full Breakdown
U.S. Marine Denies Sexual Assault Charges in Okinawa Court
11/19/2025, 11:17:29 PM
Incident Overview
On November 18, 2025, U.S. Marine Pfc. Austin Wedington appeared in Naha District Court, Okinawa, to face charges of sexual assault against a Japanese woman. During the proceedings, Wedington pleaded not guilty to forcible sexual intercourse but admitted to injuring another woman during the incident that occurred on March 18. The court session was presided over by Judge Kazuhiko Obata, with prosecutor Kazutaka Maeda presenting the case.
Allegations and Defense
The prosecution alleges that Wedington entered the women's restroom at the Gunners Fitness Center on Camp Foster around 10 p.m. on the night of the incident. It is claimed that he climbed into a stall occupied by a 20-year-old woman, forcibly grabbing her mouth. The prosecutor further stated that a second woman, aged 50, attempted to intervene and was subsequently injured by Wedington, who allegedly stomped on her face and placed her in a chokehold, resulting in bruising and a neck sprain.
In his defense, Wedington testified that he had "no memory" of the events described. His attorney, Tetsu Amakata, entered a not guilty plea on his behalf regarding the sexual assault charges while acknowledging Wedington's guilt for injuring the second woman. Amakata contested the prosecution's claims, asserting that Wedington did not stomp on the woman's face or cause the injuries attributed to him.
Evidence and Court Proceedings
The prosecution submitted various pieces of evidence, including security camera footage, fingerprints found on the stall door, and DNA samples. Judge Obata indicated that he would rule on the admissibility of this evidence at the next court date. The judge also inquired about Wedington's decision-making capabilities at the time of the incident, to which Amakata stated he would consider and respond before the next hearing.
Context of Sexual Assault Cases in Okinawa
Wedington's case is part of a troubling trend, marking the third sexual assault trial involving U.S. service members in Okinawa within two years. In response to these incidents, U.S. Forces Japan implemented stricter liberty restrictions in October 2024, which included prohibiting off-base drinking by service members during specific hours and increasing police patrols in nightlife districts of Okinawa city and Naha. Previous cases include the conviction of Senior Airman Brennon Washington for kidnapping and sexually assaulting a minor in December 2024, and Marine Lance Cpl. Jamel Clayton for strangling and attempting to sexually assault a woman in June 2025. Both of these convictions are currently under appeal.
Official Statements & Responses
U.S. Marine Corps Installations Pacific confirmed Wedington's role as a correction and detention specialist with the Headquarters and Support Battalion on Camp Foster. The first alleged victim is identified as a Japanese civilian employee on a U.S. base.
Criticism & Opposition
The series of sexual assault cases involving U.S. service members has drawn criticism from local communities in Okinawa, leading to heightened tensions regarding the presence of U.S. military personnel in the region. Local advocates have called for more stringent measures to ensure the safety of residents and accountability for service members.
What's Next
The next court date for Pfc. Austin Wedington has yet to be scheduled, where further evidence will be reviewed, and the judge will make determinations regarding the admissibility of the presented evidence. The outcome of this case may influence ongoing discussions about military conduct and community relations in Okinawa.
