Report: Arrest Warrant for Hayden Panettiere in Japan
THURSDAY NOVEMBER 15, 2007 01:00 PM EST

By Tim Nudd
An arrest warrant has been issued in Japan for Hayden Panettiere, the Heroes star says in an interview.

"I learned today that I have an arrest warrant out for me in Japan because of what I did for Save the Whales," Panettiere, 18, is quoted as telling E! News.

Late last month, the actress-activist participated with others in a confrontation with fisherman during a dolphin hunt.

Asked what the repercussions might be from the warrant, Panettiere said, "Potentially jail, but I doubt it. ... I guess they could come here and get us, but probably not."

On Oct. 30, Panettiere joined other activists in paddling on surfboards into a cove near Taiji in southwestern Japan, in an attempt to interfere with a dolphin hunt there. The incident drew worldwide attention when video of it – including footage of Panettiere weeping on shore after being turned back – reached the Internet.

Would Do It Again
Panettiere said the arrest warrant does not faze her. "I'd do it again," she said of the protest. "Very possibly, might do it again."

The actress added that the personal risks involved paled in comparison to the potential good that could come from the activists' actions.

"I was very excited that people were interested in what we did," she said. "In [Hollywood], you tend to only get publicity for not wearing underwear or going to rehab."