Former interpreter of Shohei Ohtani, Ippei Mizuhara, surrenders to federal authorities

Former interpreter for Shohei Ohtani, Ippei Mizuhara, turned himself in to federal authorities on Friday after allegedly stealing $16 million from the Los Angeles Dodgers star. Mizuhara is facing charges of bank fraud for making unauthorized transfers from Ohtani’s bank account to pay off his gambling debts with an illegal bookmaker.

According to U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada, Mizuhara falsely identified himself as Ohtani to authorize the wire transfers to associates of the illegal gambling operation. The New York Times reported that Mizuhara is in negotiations to plead guilty in connection to the theft.

Major League Baseball released a statement acknowledging Ohtani as a victim of fraud and stating that there is no evidence of Ohtani authorizing betting with an illegal bookmaker. The investigation did not find any betting on baseball by Mizuhara.

Mizuhara allegedly wired over $16 million from Ohtani’s bank account, purchased baseball cards worth $325,000, and had them mailed to himself and the Dodgers’ clubhouse. Ohtani denied authorizing the wire transfers and provided evidence to investigators.

The Dodgers fired Mizuhara in March amid claims of fund theft, prompting MLB to open an investigation. Ohtani broke his silence, denying any involvement in illegal activities. The probe into Mizuhara’s actions was a joint effort by federal agencies, revealing that he stole more than the initially reported $4.5 million.

The allegations against Mizuhara surfaced during the Dodgers’ season-opening series in Seoul, South Korea. Mizuhara was confronted by law enforcement upon his return to California. The case is ongoing, with Mizuhara expected to appear in federal court.