Bombshell report reveals that Shohei Otani’s interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, lost more than $40 million over 26 months on sports betting. Criminal charges were dismissed by federal prosecutors. on Thursday.
Mizuhara, who was indicted Thursday on federal bank fraud charges for allegedly stealing more than $16 million from Ohtani to cover gambling debts, placed about 19,000 bets in a period starting in December 2021. However, the stakes per bet ranged from $10 to $160,000, with an average of about $12,800. Until January 2024.
In total, Mizuhara won $142,256,769.74 and lost $182,935,206.68 through illegal bookmakers.
Investigators found no evidence that Mizuhara was betting on baseball.
The indictment revealed messages exchanged between Mizuhara and the bookmaker, offering a glimpse into how he got into such a hole.
“I’m not good at this sports betting thing, right? Lol… Is there a chance we’ll bump into each other again? Just so you know, you don’t have to worry about me not paying!!” according to the complaint. Mr. Mizuhara wrote this in mid-November 2022.
Even last summer, Mizuhara’s fortunes did not improve.
“I have a problem lol,” Mizuhara allegedly wrote in June 2023.
By the end of last year, Mizuhara was apparently looking for a way to pay off his large debt.
“To be honest, I have lost a lot of money in cryptocurrencies over the last few years, and I have obviously taken a big hit in sports as well… I just wanted to ask, is there a way to determine the amount?” According to the complaint, Suwon wrote in mid-November 2023.
Mizuhara was previously accused of stealing $4.5 million from Ohtani.
“At this time, Mr. Ohtani is considered a victim in this case,” U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada said Thursday, according to The Athletic, adding that Mr. Ohtani is “cooperating fully and completely with the investigation.” ” he added.
The New York Times reported Wednesday that Mizuhara is negotiating a plea deal with federal authorities.
