Ex-interpreter faces five years for embezzling from Shohei Ohtani
Federal prosecutors are seeking a nearly five-year sentence for Ippei Mizuhara, the former interpreter of baseball star Shohei Ohtani, who pleaded guilty to bank and tax fraud. Mizuhara stole nearly $17 million from Ohtani, and on 6 February, he is set to be sentenced.
Prosecutors are presenting a four-minute audio recording as evidence in which Mizuhara impersonates Ohtani during a bank call to transfer $200,000 for what he claimed was a car loan.
The recording, obtained by the Associated Press, reveals Mizuhara identifying himself as Ohtani and discussing a failed online banking login. He later confirms the $200,000 transaction amount when questioned by a bank representative.
Mizuhara accessed Ohtani's bank account around November 2021, altering its security protocols to authorise wire transfers. By 2024, he allegedly used a portion of these funds to purchase approximately $325,000 worth of baseball cards.
Additionally, Mizuhara used millions from Ohtani's Arizona bank account to pay for gambling debts, illegal bookmaker expenses, and other personal costs. Prosecutors are also seeking restitution of the nearly $17 million to Ohtani, as well as a penalty exceeding $1 million to the IRS.
Mizuhara's attorney has not responded to requests for comment, and it remains unclear when the audio recording was made. He previously played pivotal roles in Ohtani's career, being present during significant events, including the Home Run Derby and Ohtani's MVP victories.
