Former Ohtani Interpreter Pleads Guilty in $17 Million Sports Betting Fraud Case

In a startling turn of events, Ippei Mizuhara, the former interpreter for Los Angeles Dodgers sensation Shohei Ohtani, admitted guilt to charges of bank and tax fraud on Tuesday. The confession unveiled a scheme where Mizuhara embezzled nearly $17 million from Ohtani to cover extensive sports betting debts, tarnishing his once-respected position in the baseball community. The plea was entered at the federal court in Santa Ana, California.

Exploiting his intimate professional and personal ties with Ohtani, Mizuhara’s actions shocked the baseball world, as he confessed to siphoning funds from the Japanese star’s accounts over several years, occasionally posing as Ohtani during financial transactions. The plea agreement, outlining the allegations, was signed on May 5 and subsequently disclosed by prosecutors.

During the court proceedings, Mizuhara acknowledged his wrongdoing, stating, “I worked for victim A and had access to his bank account and had fallen into major gambling debt. I went ahead and wired money… with his bank account.”

Authorities clarified that there was no indication of Ohtani’s involvement or awareness of Mizuhara’s illicit activities, emphasizing that Ohtani cooperated fully with the investigation.

U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada underscored Ohtani’s vulnerability as an immigrant navigating unfamiliar financial systems, noting the establishment of a Vulnerable Victims Task Force to address fraud against immigrant communities.

Mizuhara faces potential deportation to Japan, in addition to severe legal repercussions. Ohtani, expressing relief after the hearing, thanked his support network and emphasized the importance of moving forward.

The investigation revealed Mizuhara’s substantial betting activity, with winnings totaling over $142 million, offset by losses exceeding $183 million, resulting in a net loss of nearly $41 million. Interestingly, Mizuhara did not place bets on baseball, with some of the embezzled funds reportedly used to cover dental expenses.

Mizuhara pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and one count of subscribing to a false tax return, carrying maximum sentences of 30 years and three years in federal prison, respectively. The sentencing is scheduled for October 25.

As part of the plea deal, Mizuhara is obligated to reimburse Ohtani approximately $17 million and settle outstanding taxes with the IRS, though these amounts may vary prior to sentencing.

Federal prosecutor Jeff Mitchell detailed Mizuhara’s role as an interpreter facilitating financial transactions for a Major League Baseball player who did not speak English. Mizuhara’s deceptive tactics involved altering account details to access funds for gambling debts.

The scandal came to light following investigations by media outlets, leading to Mizuhara’s dismissal by the Dodgers and MLB launching its own inquiry. The timing of Mizuhara’s court appearance coincided with the banning of San Diego Padres infielder Tucupita Marcano from baseball for life due to a separate gambling scandal.