Title: Former MLB Interpreter Pleads Guilty to Bank Fraud, Stealing $17 Million to Cover Gambling Debts

Former MLB interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, has agreed to plead guilty to bank fraud in relation to stealing nearly $17 million from MLB star Shohei Ohtani, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Mizuhara, 39, is facing charges of bank fraud and subscribing to a false tax return, which could result in a total of up to 33 years in prison.

The plea agreement reveals that Mizuhara assisted Ohtani in setting up a bank account in Phoenix in 2018, as the player doesn't speak English. However, in September 2021, Mizuhara began placing sports bets and quickly amassed significant gambling debts. Unable to pay, he devised a scheme to fraudulently obtain money from Ohtani's account.

Mizuhara exploited his position of trust and accessed Ohtani's bank account, updating the security information to redirect verification requests to himself. He also impersonated Ohtani in calls to the bank on multiple occasions. From November 2021 to March 2024, Mizuhara transferred approximately $17 million from Ohtani's account to associates of an illegal bookmaker, all without Ohtani's knowledge or permission.

In addition to the bank fraud charges, Mizuhara admitted to falsely reporting his taxable income for 2022, failing to disclose an additional $4.1 million in income. As a result, he now owes over $1.1 million in additional taxes, plus interest and penalties.

U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada emphasized the magnitude of Mizuhara's actions, labeling his deception and theft as massive. Estrada stated, "He took advantage of his position of trust to take advantage of Mr. Ohtani and fuel a dangerous gambling habit."

Shohei Ohtani, who cooperated fully in the investigation, has been identified as the victim in this case. The Los Angeles Dodgers, Mizuhara's former employer, terminated his employment on March 20 without providing a specific reason.

Mizuhara appeared in federal court on April 12, accompanied by his attorney, Michael Freedman, who stated that his client is cooperating with the legal process and hopes for a swift resolution to the case. Freedman also expressed Mizuhara's desire to apologize to Ohtani, the Dodgers, Major League Baseball, and his family. He confirmed that Mizuhara intends to seek treatment for his gambling addiction.

An arraignment is scheduled for May 14, where Mizuhara is expected to enter his guilty plea. The consequences of bank fraud and tax evasion could see him facing a maximum sentence of 33 years in prison.