Shohei Ohtani's former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, was sentenced to 57 months in prison for bank and tax fraud, having admitted to stealing nearly $17 million from Ohtani to cover gambling debts from illegal sports betting. Mizuhara's sentencing coincided with Ohtani's Dodgers debut. Following his prison term, he is expected to be deported to Japan. Major League Baseball cleared Ohtani of any wrongdoing, stating he is a victim of fraud, providing him with closure amidst the scandal involving his former close associate and interpreter.
"Based on the thoroughness of the federal investigation that was made public, the information MLB collected, and the criminal proceeding being resolved without being contested, MLB considers Shohei Ohtani a victim of fraud and this matter has been closed."
"Mizuhara will spend 57 months in prison and is also ordered to pay restitution to Ohtani. Mizuhara admitted to stealing nearly $17 million from Ohtani in order to pay off gambling debts incurred while participating in illegal sports betting with a Southern California bookmaker."
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