"Shohei Ohtani's Ex-Translator Ippei Mizuhara Accused of $16 Million Theft and Gambling Betrayal"

Shohei Ohtani's former interpreter and friend, Ippei Mizuhara, is expected to surrender to federal authorities after allegedly stealing $16 million from Ohtani's bank account to fund his illegal sports betting activities. Mizuhara, who faces a federal charge of bank fraud, made unauthorized transfers from Ohtani's account and even impersonated the baseball star to approve large wire transfers. The investigation found that Ohtani was unaware of Mizuhara's activities and is considered a victim in the case. If convicted, Mizuhara could face up to 30 years in prison, and Major League Baseball is awaiting the resolution of the criminal proceeding before determining further action.