Shohei Ohtani’s former interpreter Ippei Mizuhara agreed to plead guilty to one count of bank fraud after reportedly stealing nearly $17 million from the Los Angeles Dodgers star to pay off gambling debts.
Mizuhara will also plead guilty to one count of subscribing to a false tax return after signing a false tax return. Between the two charges, Mizuhara faces a maximum of 33 years in federal prison.
Mizuhara’s arraignment date is scheduled for Tuesday, May 14. “The extent of this defendant’s deception and theft is massive,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada.
“He took advantage of his position of trust to take advantage of Mr. Ohtani and fuel a dangerous gambling habit. My office is committed to vindicating victims throughout our community and ensuring that wrongdoers face justice.”
“Our joint investigation with Homeland Security Investigations clearly showed Mr. Mizuhara not only stole from Mr. Ohtani, but also that he lied to the IRS about his income, “said Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher, IRS Criminal Investigation, Los Angeles Field Office.
“Mr. Mizuhara exploited his relationship with Mr. Ohtani to bankroll his own irresponsibility. In cases where we are able to identify them, we make every effort to make things right for victims, and this is one of those cases.”
“This investigation into Mr. Mizuhara and subsequent plea highlight the threat posed by financial crimes in the Los Angeles-area,” said HSI Los Angeles Special Agent Eddy Wang.
“The HSI-led El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force is dedicated to protecting all victims of financial fraud from all walks of life.”
Because he agreed to a plea deal, Mizuhara is expected to serve roughly seven-to-nine years in prison. He has already publicly apologized to Ohtani and the Dodgers, and his forthcoming sentencing will bring some closure to them.
Ippei Mizuhara forwarded stolen money to Shohei Ohtani to casinos
It was previously reported that Mizuhara sent money from Ohtani’s bank account to casinos in Las Vegas and Southern California as part of an illegal gambling scheme involving bookmaker Matthew Bowyer.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
