Official announcements from major sports leagues

Ohtani's Ex-Interpreter Pleads Guilty in 2.5-Year Gambling, Money Laundering Scandal

May 9, 2024, 09:24 PM

The case involving Shohei Ohtani's former interpreter, Mizuhara, has highlighted significant issues in the sports and gambling industries. Mizuhara was reportedly involved in using Ohtani's funds to place offshore bets for over 2.5 years. This situation came to light as part of a broader money-laundering investigation that is currently impacting Las Vegas. Additionally, it was revealed that Mizuhara wired money from Ohtani's account to a reality TV star to settle gambling debts. The rapid resolution of the case, with Mizuhara pleading guilty without contest, has raised suspicions about the influence of Guggenheim money in legal outcomes. Notably, other sports figures like Porter and Ridley were caught quickly by legal betting apps, contrasting with Mizuhara's prolonged illicit activities.