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.
11 Comments
Marishka
This just goes to show that sometimes, the people closest to you can be the most dangerous.
Pupsik
Let's focus on helping those in need rather than solely on punishment. Justice can also be compassionate.
Marishka
Every person makes mistakes. Hopefully, he can use his experience to advocate for others struggling with addiction.
Pupsik
Five years isn’t enough for what he did. He stole not just money, but trust.
Marishka
His actions were definitely wrong, but it’s crucial to understand the struggles he was facing.
Loubianka
We all make mistakes in life, some worse than others. I hope Mizuhara finds a way to rebuild his life.
Katchuka
While what he did was wrong, let's not forget that addiction is a serious illness that can lead people to make terrible decisions.
KittyKat
How can anyone defend Mizuhara? His actions were nothing short of criminal.
BuggaBoom
How can Mizuhara sleep at night knowing he betrayed Ohtani like this? It’s sickening.
Noir Black
I hope this opens up conversations about gambling addiction and mental health. It's often overlooked.
Loubianka
Stealing $17 million is a serious crime, and it’s shocking that someone so close to Ohtani would do this.