The gambling scandal involving Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani's former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, that shook the MLB has finally concluded.
Mizuhara pleaded guilty to tax and bank fraud charges on Tuesday, June 4, at a courthouse south of Los Angeles.
"Now that the investigation has been completed, this full admission of guilt has brought important closure to me and my family. I want to sincerely thank the authorities for finishing their thorough and effective investigation so quickly and uncovering all of the evidence," the 29-year-old phenom said in a statement.
The reigning American League MVP expressed gratitude to his support team, including his family, agency, lawyers, advisors, and the entire Dodgers organization.
"It's time to close this chapter, move on and continue to focus on playing and winning ballgames," the three-time MLB All-Star added.
MLB confirms verdict on Shohei Ohtani betting scandal
The MLB has also cleared Ohtani of any wrongdoing.
"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," the league said.
Mizuhara must pay Ohtani $17 million, the amount he is accused of stealing, and an additional $1 million to the IRS.
The 39-year-old faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for bank fraud charges and an additional three years for false tax return charges.
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