An unusual criminal trial is under way at the Tokyo District Court in which a suspected shoplifter refuses to reveal his identity, causing awkwardness for the bench but not posing any legal problems.

With his name, age and address a mystery to the court, a Japanese man thought to be in his 20s will likely be sentenced as early as January, with the final hearing of his trial slated for next month.

In a recent hearing, the man repeatedly replied, "I'd rather not say" to pleas by presiding Judge Masazo Ogura to state his name so as to dispense with the clumsiness of calling him by his custody number.

Tentatively called No. 45 of Shibuya Police Station where he has been detained, the man, who has expressed remorse for his crime, has steadfastly refused to disclose his name, claiming he does not want to embarrass his family and friends.

The man was caught in July stealing watches and other goods in a large variety store in Tokyo's Shibuya Ward. He allegedly sprayed four security guards with tear gas while attempting to escape.

Only a train ticket from Fukushima Prefecture was found on his person at the time of his capture, according to court officials, adding that there are no runaway child reports matching his description.

The man's court-assigned defense counsel is also frustrated by his client's inflexible attitude, which will likely nix any chances of the court handing down a lightened sentence by taking into account extenuating circumstances.