Bookmaker Embroiled in Scandal Pleads Guilty

A bookmaker from Southern California has admitted to running an illegal gambling operation that accepted bets from Ippei Mizuhara, the former interpreter for baseball star Shohei Ohtani, according to U.S. authorities. Matthew Bauer's operation functioned in both Southern California and Las Vegas for at least five years, taking bets from a range of clients, including Mizuhara, who was known for his association with the Los Angeles Dodgers player.

Bauer has pleaded guilty to charges of operating an illegal gambling business, money laundering, and filing a false tax return, with a formal plea expected on August 9. His attorney, Diane Bass, stated that Bauer is ready to accept responsibility for his actions and is collaborating with federal prosecutors to resolve the case, which included a raid on his residence. Bass also emphasised that "Mr. Bauer never had any direct communication with Shohei Ohtani in person or by phone; his only interaction was with Ippei Mizuhara."

It's important to note that operating an unlicensed bookmaking business is a federal offence in the U.S., and while gambling and sports betting are largely outlawed in California, these activities are permitted in varying capacities in 38 states and the District of Columbia.

Meanwhile, Mizuhara has also pleaded guilty to bank and tax fraud after illicitly obtaining funds from Ohtani’s bank account. According to federal investigators, Mizuhara placed approximately 19,000 bets between September 2021 and January 2024, winning over $142 million, which he transferred to his own account. Ultimately, Mizuhara lost around $183 million, leaving Ohtani’s net loss at nearly $41 million.