Ippei Mizuhara Begins 57-Month Sentence for Embezzlement in High-Profile Case
On Monday, Ippei Mizuhara commenced a 57-month prison sentence at the Allenwood federal facility in Pennsylvania, marking a pivotal moment in the high-profile gambling scandal involving former MLB star Shohei Ohtani.
Serving as Ohtani’s interpreter, Mizuhara embezzled approximately $17 million, a betrayal rooted in a devastating gambling addiction. Upon his arrival at the minimum-security prison—about 75 miles north of Harrisburg—Mizuhara’s fate was sealed, having admitted to diverting funds to settle debts owed to an illegal sports betting ring led by Matt Bowyer, known as one of the country’s largest bookmakers, now also facing federal charges for money laundering.
A Journey from Japan to Indictment
Originally hailing from Tomakomai, Japan, Mizuhara moved to Southern California in his youth. His journey in baseball took a significant turn when he returned to Japan, becoming an interpreter for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, where he first connected with Ohtani, then a promising teen athlete.
Their relationship transformed over time; Mizuhara became a trusted ally, sharing meals and engaging in gaming marathons. However, unbeknownst to Ohtani, Mizuhara spiraled into gambling, racking up over 19,000 wagers totaling around $325 million, resulting in significant losses and driving him to impersonate Ohtani in over twenty calls to banking officials for illicit transactions.
In open court, Mizuhara expressed remorse, apologizing for violating Ohtani’s trust and pleading for leniency: “Thank you, your honor, for the opportunity to speak at sentencing. I am deeply sorry for what I have done and I beg your mercy.” His initial report date in March was moved twice, with the reasons for the delays remaining undisclosed.
Echoes of Notable Inmates
Mizuhara is one of several high-profile figures who have ended up at FCI Allenwood for white-collar crimes. Among its notable former residents are Jeb Magruder, involved in the Watergate scandal, and Martin Shkreli, infamous for inflating drug prices. Shkreli, who had been transferred there from FCI Fort Dix amid allegations of continuing business operations from prison, was released in May 2022.
Interestingly, Mizuhara’s admission to prison coincided with Ohtani’s long-awaited return to the mound as a Dodger, marking a significant recovery milestone after his elbow surgery. MLB has cleared Ohtani of any involvement in Mizuhara’s illegal activities.
As Mizuhara serves his sentence, listed under BOP register number 09459-511, he may face deportation to Japan upon release. Efforts to reach Mizuhara’s attorney for comment have gone unanswered. The case highlights the intersection of personal struggles and professional responsibilities, reminding us of the delicate balance athletes must maintain in the face of external influences.