Shohei Ohtani’s former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, is facing sentencing in a Southern California courtroom for stealing nearly $17 million from the Los Angeles Dodgers superstar to pay off gambling debts and purchase valuable baseball cards. Mizuhara pleaded guilty to bank fraud and tax evasion charges and could face up to 30 years in prison, but prosecutors are seeking a sentence of four years and nine months. Mizuhara’s defense lawyer called him a gambling addict who made a “terrible mistake” and is asking for a sentence of 1 1/2 years. Mizuhara, who was born in Japan and moved to the United States as a child, could face deportation after serving his sentence.
Prosecutors have emphasized that Ohtani was a victim in this case and was not involved in the gambling activities. Mizuhara expressed regret for violating Ohtani’s trust and stated that he was committed to helping Ohtani become the best version of himself on the field. The scandal had cast a shadow over the Dodgers’ 2024 season, with Mizuhara being fired from the team after allegations of his involvement with gamblers. Despite the controversy, Ohtani and the Dodgers went on to win the World Series that year, marking their first victory parade since 1988. The case is ongoing and updates are expected as the sentencing process unfolds.
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