Former interpreter Ippei Mizuhara is set to be sentenced in a Southern California court for stealing nearly $17 million from baseball superstar Shohei Ohtani to pay off gambling debts. Mizuhara pleaded guilty to bank fraud and tax evasion charges for using the money for gambling and buying baseball cards. Prosecutors have emphasized that Ohtani was a victim in this scheme and that he never bet on baseball.
Mizuhara could potentially face up to 30 years in prison, but prosecutors are seeking a sentence of four years and nine months. His defense attorney has argued for a shorter sentence of 1 1/2 years, citing Mizuhara’s gambling addiction and remorse for his actions. Mizuhara, who could face deportation after serving his term, has expressed regret for violating Ohtani’s trust.
The scandal involving Mizuhara has overshadowed the Dodgers’ 2024 season, with reports of a federal investigation into his possible ties to gamblers. Mizuhara, who was fired by the Dodgers, was present during the team’s opening games in Seoul before the controversy came to light. Despite this distraction, Ohtani and the Dodgers went on to win the World Series that year, celebrating their first championship since 1988.
This is an ongoing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. David K. Li, a Senior Breaking News Reporter for the Associated Press, contributed to this report.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
