Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani's former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, has surrendered to authorities and appeared in court in the wake of the massive gambling scandal that has rocked the baseball world for nearly a month.
Mizuhara is accused of embezzling approximately $16 million from the bank account of the reigning American League MVP for several years, at times impersonating Ohtani to bankers to cover his sports gambling bets and debts.
The 39-year-old disgraced interpreter surrendered to authorities and subsequently appeared in a U.S. District Court in downtown Los Angeles on Friday afternoon, April 12.
Mizuhara appeared in court wearing a suit without a tie and had shackles around his ankles.
The Japanese national's arraignment scheduled on May 9 will mark the beginning of the criminal trial process, serving as the initial appearance in court.
Read more: Dodgers Star Shohei Ohtani Set to Be Cleared by Federal Government Regarding Gambling Scandal
Mizuhara was released on $25k bond shortly after surrender
Mizuhara was released after being on an unsecured $25,000 bond, meaning he doesn't have to put up any cash or collateral for his release but would owe the amount if he violates various bond conditions.
As part of the conditions of his release, Mizuhara was required to surrender his passport and ordered to undergo gambling addiction treatment.
He faces a single bank fraud charge, and if found guilty, he could face a maximum 30-year prison term.
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