A federal court has sentenced Ippei Mizuhara, the former Japanese-language interpreter for Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani, to four years and nine months in prison for embezzling nearly $17 million from Ohtani. Mizuhara, who also served as a close confidant and translator for Ohtani, pleaded guilty to two counts of bank fraud and one count of filing a false tax return. He was also ordered to pay more than $18 million in restitution, with most of the funds designated for Ohtani and the rest allocated to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
Details of the Fraud
Mizuhara’s fraudulent scheme began in 2021, when he exploited his trusted role to access Ohtani’s bank account. He posed as Ohtani in communications with bank officials, authorizing wire transfers to pay off massive gambling debts. The stolen funds were not only used for gambling but also for personal expenses, including the purchase of high-value baseball cards and dental work.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
During the sentencing, U.S. District Judge John W. Holcomb highlighted the betrayal of trust and the financial and reputational damage caused by Mizuhara. Shohei Ohtani provided virtual testimony as part of the proceedings.
Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph T. McNally remarked, “This case is a sobering reminder of the damage that can be done when someone abuses their position of trust.”
Impact on Shohei Ohtani
Despite this personal and financial setback, Shohei Ohtani remains at the top of the baseball world. After signing a record-breaking $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Ohtani made history by becoming the first MLB player to achieve a 50-home-run, 50-stolen-base season. He also led the Dodgers to their eighth World Series title and secured his third MVP award.
FAQ
Who is Ippei Mizuhara?
Ippei Mizuhara was more than just an interpreter for Shohei Ohtani—he was his confidant, translator, and trusted liaison. Mizuhara was recently convicted and sentenced to prison for embezzling money from Ohtani.
How did Mizuhara steal money from Ohtani?
Mizuhara posed as Ohtani in communications with bank officials, authorizing unauthorized wire transfers to cover his gambling debts and personal expenses.
How did the legal case against Mizuhara conclude?
Mizuhara pleaded guilty to bank fraud and filing a false tax return. He was sentenced to four years and nine months in federal prison and ordered to pay more than $18 million in restitution.
What does this mean for Shohei Ohtani?
Despite this deep personal betrayal, Ohtani has continued to focus on his baseball career, achieving historic milestones and leading the Dodgers to a World Series victory.
Join the Conversation
What are your thoughts on this case and its impact on Shohei Ohtani? How do you think this affects trust within professional sports? Share your opinions in the comments below!
