A former interpreter for Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has been sentenced to nearly five years in prison for stealing $17 million from the baseball player to cover gambling debts. The sentencing marks the conclusion of a case involving fraudulent financial activity and illegal sports betting.
The interpreter, who previously worked closely with Ohtani as both a translator and de facto manager, received a prison term of four years and nine months. In addition to the sentence, he was ordered to pay restitution of over $18 million. Prosecutors had requested this sentence, emphasizing the severity of the financial misconduct.
The interpreter had pleaded guilty to felony bank fraud and subscribing to a false tax return. Court documents revealed that he had embezzled nearly $17 million from a bank account that he helped open for Ohtani in Phoenix in 2018. Without the baseball star’s knowledge, the interpreter transferred funds from this account to an illegal bookmaking operation in an attempt to cover mounting gambling losses.
Authorities investigating the case confirmed that Ohtani was not involved in any wrongdoing. The baseball player, who has never placed bets on sports or knowingly engaged with a bookmaker, was determined to be a victim of theft.
The financial crimes began when the interpreter started gambling with an illegal sportsbook in late 2021, quickly accumulating substantial losses. To fund his betting habit, he resorted to impersonating Ohtani over the phone. On more than two dozen occasions, he deceived bank employees, posing as Ohtani to authorize wire transfers from the player’s account.
The case gained national attention, not only because of the amount stolen but also due to Ohtani’s high-profile status in Major League Baseball. The 30-year-old player, known for excelling both as a pitcher and a hitter, signed a historic 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers last season, making him the highest-paid player in the sport’s history. His remarkable abilities on the field have drawn comparisons to Babe Ruth, solidifying his place as one of the most unique talents in baseball.
During the legal proceedings, prosecutors argued that the interpreter had deliberately exploited his position of trust, taking advantage of his close relationship with Ohtani to carry out financial fraud. The stolen funds were funneled into an underground gambling network, exposing a larger issue of illegal sports betting operations.
Authorities also pointed out that the interpreter had misrepresented financial records and provided false information on tax documents, further compounding his legal troubles. These actions ultimately led to the felony charges that resulted in his conviction.
Ohtani, for his part, has remained focused on his career despite the financial scandal. His record-breaking contract reflects his immense value to the Dodgers and the sport as a whole. The sentencing of his former interpreter serves as a cautionary tale about financial mismanagement and the risks associated with illegal gambling.
With the case now concluded, attention will shift back to Ohtani’s on-field performance as he continues to make history in Major League Baseball.
