Ippei Mizuhara could have stolen more money from Ohtani, in talks to plea guilty
Shohei Ohtani’s ex-interpreter hasn’t been seen since the initial report was published
Ippei Mizuhara was fired by the Dodgers for allegedly stealing millions of dollars from Shohei Ohtani
Ippei Mizuhara, the former interpreter of MLB sensation Shohei Ohtani, is reportedly in talks to plead guilty in connection with a gambling scandal that has rocked the sports world.
Here was the interaction between Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani and his translator Mizuhara
Investigation continues into Mizuhara’s gambling scandal
Tim Arango and Michael S. Schmidt of the New York Times broke the story, revealing Mizuhara’s alleged involvement in the theft of Ohtani’s funds to cover his own gambling debts.
Mizuhara’s dismissal from his role as Ohtani’s interpreter by the Los Angeles Dodgers last month came amidst accusations that he misappropriated millions of dollars from the Japanese star’s bank account to settle debts with an illegal bookmaker.
Ohtani’s representatives wasted no time in seeking legal action, prompting investigations by both federal authorities and Major League Baseball (MLB).
The ongoing probe, spearheaded by agencies including the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Department of Homeland Security, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California, has reportedly uncovered alarming evidence.
It suggests that Mizuhara may have embezzled even more from Ohtani than initially estimated, with additional revelations about Mizuhara’s ability to manipulate Ohtani’s bank account settings to avoid detection.
Ohtani’s start with Dodgers marred by gambling probe
The case has drawn significant attention, particularly given Ohtani’s stature as a groundbreaking athlete in both pitching and hitting.
While Ohtani has vehemently denied any involvement in the scandal, the situation has cast a shadow over his historic contract with the Dodgers, signed earlier this offseason.
Mizuhara’s attorney, Michael G. Freedman, has confirmed his representation but declined to comment further, underscoring the sensitivity of the matter.
With Mizuhara reportedly facing mounting pressure from authorities, a swift admission of guilt could potentially influence the severity of his punishment.
As the investigation unfolds, the spotlight remains on both Ohtani and MLB, with questions arising about the league’s regulations on gambling and the responsibilities of players and staff.
The outcome of Mizuhara’s negotiations for a guilty plea could offer clarity in a saga that has captivated sports enthusiasts worldwide.
