Recording captured ex-interpreter impersonating Ohtani to transfer $200,000, prosecutors say
Fraudulent Scheme Unveiled
A nearly four-minute audio recording has surfaced, implicating former Shohei Ohtani interpreter Ippei Mizuhara in a scheme to transfer $200,000 from the baseball star’s account, according to federal prosecutors. The recording, captured during a call to a bank, shows Mizuhara allegedly impersonating Ohtani as he attempts to explain a car loan transaction. This recording forms part of the evidence prosecutors are using in their pursuit of a nearly five-year prison sentence for Mizuhara, who has already pleaded guilty to charges of bank and tax fraud.
Mizuhara’s Alleged Fraudulent Activities
The federal prosecutors’ filing details a complex and audacious fraud operation carried out by Mizuhara. In late 2021, Mizuhara reportedly began accessing Shohei Ohtani’s bank account, changing its security protocols to authorize wire transfers. Between 2021 and 2024, he allegedly used the stolen funds for personal gain, including covering gambling debts, medical bills, and purchasing baseball cards worth approximately $325,000 through online resellers such as eBay and Whatnot.
Key Evidence: The Impersonation Recording
One of the pivotal pieces of evidence in this case is the audio recording, which allegedly captures Mizuhara impersonating Ohtani during a conversation with a bank representative. In the recording, the bank employee questions Mizuhara about the purpose of the $200,000 transaction, to which he claims it’s for a car loan. The exchange continues with the bank representative inquiring about his relationship with the payee, to which Mizuhara responds, “He’s my friend.”
As the conversation progresses, the bank employee also asks if there will be any future transactions to the payee. Mizuhara answers, “Possibly,” adding further weight to the fraudulent nature of the transaction.
Mizuhara’s Motive: Gambling and Debt
Mizuhara’s fraud scheme allegedly stemmed from his escalating gambling habits. Federal prosecutors revealed that he gambled away tens of millions of dollars on various sports, including international soccer, the NBA, the NFL, and college football. However, they clarified that Mizuhara never placed bets on baseball, which would have been a direct conflict of interest. His gambling debts and compulsive betting behaviors led him to steal from the very person who once considered him a friend.
The Relationship Between Ohtani and Mizuhara
Mizuhara was not just an interpreter for Shohei Ohtani; he was also a close confidant and a part of many significant milestones in Ohtani’s career. From being Ohtani’s catcher during the 2021 Home Run Derby to being present for his two American League MVP wins and his record-breaking contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Mizuhara was a fixture in Ohtani’s professional life. Off the field, the two were reported to be friends, with their families reportedly socializing as well.
Legal Consequences and Restitution
Mizuhara, who previously pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and one count of subscribing to a false tax return, faces a sentence of up to five years in prison. Prosecutors are also seeking restitution of nearly $17 million, the amount Mizuhara allegedly stole from Ohtani, as well as a penalty of over $1 million to the IRS for tax-related violations.
Conclusion: A Trust Betrayed
The rise and fall of Ippei Mizuhara serve as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of misplaced trust and unchecked behavior. What began as a professional relationship built on respect and friendship between Shohei Ohtani and Mizuhara has now turned into a betrayal that resulted in significant financial loss and legal repercussions. With the sentencing set for February 6, the outcome of this case will likely serve as a cautionary tale for those who abuse their positions of trust.
