Investigating drug smuggling ring on USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier

The aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan is docked at Yokosuka base, Japan.

STARS AND STRIPES SCREENSHOT

AFP news agency reported on May 25 that the US Navy is investigating allegations that some sailors on the USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier at Yokosuka base (Japan) used and smuggled drugs.

"The Naval Criminal Investigative Service is investigating sailors aboard the USS Ronald Reagan for alleged drug possession, use, and distribution," said Officer Katie Cerezo of US Naval Forces Japan.

Ms Cerezo declined to specify the number of sailors or the type of drugs involved, citing the ongoing investigation. "We take all reports of wrongdoing seriously and are working with Japanese law enforcement agencies," the officer said.

Previously, Stars and Stripes reported that the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan left Yokosuka port on May 12 on its final voyage before returning to the port to undergo repairs.

In 2018, the US Navy announced an investigation into a drug ring on the USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier with multiple suspects allegedly involved in the supply and use of psychotropic drugs and ecstasy.

Five sailors were court-martialed, while 10 others received disciplinary action in connection with the incident.

Of the five sailors who appeared in court, four pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors in exchange for being discharged for bad conduct. Another sailor was sentenced to 10 months in prison and another was sentenced to 90 days in jail.

Japan has about 50,000 US troops stationed, mostly in the southern prefecture of Okinawa.

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