Ippei Mizuhara and Shohei Ohtani. Source: Los Angeles Times

Ippei Mizuhara Pleads Guilty in Illegal Betting Case

Ippei Mizuhara, former interpreter for baseball player Shohei Ohtani, has entered a guilty plea to two federal charges in the US: bank fraud and filing a false tax return. The case revolves around Mizuhara's misappropriation of nearly $17 million from the Japanese baseball star.

Mizuhara potentially faces a maximum sentence of 33 years in prison for both charges, along with a fine of up to $1.25 million. However, under the terms of the plea agreement, prosecutors are expected to advocate for a reduced sentence. Regardless of the court's decision, Mizuhara will be obligated to reimburse Ohtani the full amount of almost $17 million.

The funds stolen by the interpreter were not solely used for betting purposes; they were also diverted to cover dental bills and to purchase sports cards for resale. Mizuhara had been serving as Ohtani's translator and quasi-manager since the athlete's arrival with the Los Angeles Angels in 2018.

10 May 2024, 12:00

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