Shohei Ohtani's former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, is facing a nearly five-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to bank and tax fraud. Mizuhara stole nearly $17 million from Ohtani and used the money to buy baseball cards and cover gambling debts.
Prosecutors have released a recording of Mizuhara impersonating Ohtani on a call with a bank, attempting to transfer $200,000. The recording is being used to support the prosecution's request for a lengthy sentence.
Mizuhara was a close friend and confidant of Ohtani, and was present for many of his career highlights. He even resigned from the Los Angeles Angels during the 2021 MLB lockout so he could continue to speak to Ohtani. However, Mizuhara's gambling addiction led him to steal from Ohtani, ultimately betraying their friendship.
In addition to the prison sentence, prosecutors are seeking restitution of the nearly $17 million to Ohtani, as well as a penalty of more than $1 million to the IRS. Mizuhara is due to be sentenced on February 6th.
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