Ohtani’s Former Interpreter Reportedly Paid off Bookie Through Resorts World

A recent report from ESPN has disclosed how Ippei Mizuhara, Shohei Ohtani’s former interpreter, may have settled his gambling debts.

The report states that Mizuhara settled his gambling debts by depositing amounts as high as $500,000 into marker accounts at Resort World casinos located in Las Vegas and California.

Those accounts were said to be connected to an associate of bookmaker Matthew Bowyer, who is currently the subject of a federal investigation.

According to the report, Mizurhara transferred the funds through Resorts World in Las Vegas and Pechanga Resort Casino in Southern California. A portion of the funds was later sent to Bowyer, who converted the money into playing chips for gambling purposes, ultimately cashing out the winnings.

Investigation ongoing

Mizuhara is facing accusations of embezzling over $16 million from Ohtani in order to assist in covering $40.7 million of his gambling debts. The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) is currently looking into the claims.

According to the DOJ, Ohtani has been cleared of any involvement in sports betting. If found guilty, Mizuhara could be sentenced to up to 30 years in prison for bank fraud.

Bowyer and his associate have not been named in any indictments, but federal agents raided Bowyer’s home in October 2023 and discovered evidence connecting him to bookmaking. Consequently, Bowyer has been prohibited from entering casinos throughout the United States.

Bowyer’s ties to Resorts World

According to ESPN, Bowyer has a significant background with casinos, engaging in both business dealings and recreational activities. In betting circles, he is recognized as a “whale” for his penchant for high-stakes gambling.

It was reported that Bowyer incurred losses of almost $8 million at Resorts World between June 2022 and October 2023. Bowyer, along with his wife, friends, and associates, frequently visited the casino where they wagered millions of dollars and enjoyed complimentary dinners, shows, and other luxuries.

Resorts World is allegedly being investigated by federal authorities for purportedly running illegal sports bookmaking operations in Southern California and laundering the profits through Las Vegas casinos.

According to ESPN, twelve individuals connected to Resorts World have either been charged or convicted, and two Las Vegas casinos have agreed to pay fines.

In August 2023, Resorts World received a federal subpoena seeking documents pertaining to its anti-money laundering policies.

Mizuhara’s relationship with Bowyer

Federal authorities have not disclosed much information about Mizuhara’s connection with Bowyer, which is believed to have started in December 2021. However, IRS special agent Tyler Hatcher informed ESPN that it exhibited typical behavior of a bookie.

According to ESPN, he said, “Are they salesmen? Their role is to encourage players to continue playing. That’s what I observed. Just another salesman reassuring them, ‘It’s okay, we’ll do better next time.'”

The Department of Justice discovered that Mizuhara placed bets totaling $182,935,206, with $142,256,769 of that amount being lost. It was revealed that Mizuhara, who surrendered on April 12, had sent several text messages to Bowyer, one of which read: “It’s the end for me.”