Ippei Mizuhara, former interpreter for MLB star Shohei Ohtani, has pleaded guilty to bank fraud and filing a false tax return after stealing nearly $17 million from Ohtani’s accounts. Federal prosecutors revealed audio evidence of Mizuhara impersonating Ohtani during a bank call to authorize a fraudulent $200,000 wire transfer. In the recording, Mizuhara used Ohtani’s personal bank details to change account security settings, redirecting communications to his own email and phone number.
Mizuhara’s actions were reportedly driven by substantial gambling debts. He used the embezzled funds to cover these debts, pay medical bills, and purchase high-value items, including baseball cards worth $325,000. Despite his defense citing a gambling addiction, prosecutors argue that Mizuhara’s crimes were motivated by greed.
Scheduled for sentencing on February 6, prosecutors are recommending a prison term of nearly five years and restitution of the stolen funds, along with penalties to the IRS. Mizuhara was dismissed from his role with the Los Angeles Dodgers in March 2024 following an investigation into his fraudulent activities.
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