Federal Prosecutors Challenge Mizuhara’s Gambling Addiction Claims in Ohtani Theft Case
In a dramatic twist to an already sensational case, federal prosecutors have come forward to challenge the claims made by Shohei Ohtani‘s former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara. Mizuhara, who is due to be sentenced on February 6, had previously pleaded guilty in June to charges of stealing from the Los Angeles Dodgers star. He claimed that his actions were driven by a “long-standing” gambling addiction. However, prosecutors have now disputed these claims, stating that there is no evidence to support Mizuhara’s alleged addiction.
According to court documents filed on Thursday, prosecutors argue that Mizuhara’s assertions of a gambling problem are nothing more than “self-serving and uncorroborated statements” made to a psychologist he hired for sentencing purposes. They are pushing for a nearly five-year sentence, while Mizuhara has requested an 18-month sentence, expressing remorse for his actions.
Prosecutors have been thorough in their investigation, examining more than 30 casinos across the country. Their findings revealed “only minimal evidence” of Mizuhara’s past legal gambling activities. The only documented instance was a $200 expenditure at the Mirage casino in 2008. Furthermore, Mizuhara registered for FanDuel in 2018 but never placed a bet, and he only began betting with DraftKings in 2023, after he had already stolen millions from Ohtani.
In their response, prosecutors highlighted that Mizuhara’s financial situation did not necessitate theft. At the time of the first fraudulent wire transfer from Ohtani’s account in September 2021, Mizuhara had over $34,000 in his checking account. They argue that he could have used his own money to settle any debts but instead chose to steal from Ohtani.
Prosecutors have also provided evidence that Mizuhara deposited winnings from his bookie and DraftKings into his personal account, with no intention of repaying Ohtani. They further discredited Mizuhara’s claims of financial hardship, presenting bank statements that show he used Ohtani’s debit card to pay his rent without the player’s knowledge or authorization.
Despite Mizuhara’s claims of living “paycheck to paycheck,” prosecutors assert that he had no significant expenses, loans, or car payments. Ohtani had even provided him with a Porsche to drive. Bank records show that Mizuhara maintained a “significant balance” in his checking account, with more than $30,000 in March 2023 and over $195,000 in March 2024.
Prosecutors also noted that Mizuhara turned down book and commercial deals, despite Ohtani’s encouragement to accept them. However, he did write an illustrated children’s book about Ohtani, as evidenced by an exhibit.
In conclusion, prosecutors are adamant that a “significant period of incarceration is necessary” for Mizuhara. They have requested a sentence of 57 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and restitution of more than $16 million to Ohtani and $1.1 million to the IRS. They argue that Mizuhara’s actions were not driven by addiction but by a deliberate choice to steal from Ohtani.
As the sentencing date approaches, the case continues to capture international attention. The question remains whether Mizuhara’s claims of remorse will be enough to sway the court’s decision, or if the evidence presented by prosecutors will lead to a harsher sentence.
- Ippei Mizuhara’s sentencing is scheduled for February 6.
- Prosecutors seek a nearly five-year sentence.
- Mizuhara claims a “long-standing” gambling addiction.
- Prosecutors found minimal evidence of gambling addiction.
- Mizuhara had significant funds in his account during thefts.
Originally Written by: Tisha Thompson
