Okinawa case advances as US marine indicted over alleged robbery and homicide of woman
Charges in the case
Authorities said Ballard was stationed at Futenma Air Base in Okinawa. The indictment stems from the death of a 39-year-old woman who lived in Naha City.
What prosecutors allege
NHK reported that Ballard is accused of strangling the woman at a hotel in Naha City on Oct. 3. Prosecutors allege he wrapped a telephone receiver cord around her neck.
He is also accused of taking a backpack that contained the woman’s wallet and other belongings. The allegations have not been proven in court.
Arrest and reporting details
An opening line in the report says Cpl. Devin Jacob Ballard was arrested in connection with the Oct. 3 incident. The main account identifies him as LCpl. Devin Jacob Ballard.
The report attributes the indictment details to NHK and sources cited by the broadcaster. It describes the case as developing, with updates expected.
Key points
- Ballard, 20, is stationed at Futenma Air Base in Okinawa.
- He faces robbery and murder charges over a woman’s death.
- Prosecutors allege the woman was strangled at a Naha City hotel on Oct. 3.
- Ballard is also accused of taking a backpack with the woman’s wallet and belongings.