Illegal Bookmaker Sentenced to Over a Year in Prison in Betting Scandal Involving MLB Star Shohei Ohtani’s Former Interpreter

U.S. District Court Issues Sentence to Mathew Bowyer

SANTA ANA, Calif. – Mathew Bowyer, an illegal bookmaker involved in a high-profile gambling case tied to Los Angeles Dodgers’ star Shohei Ohtani, was sentenced to 12 months and one day in prison on Friday. U.S. District Judge John W. Holcomb also mandated two years of supervised release, gambling addiction counseling, and surrender by October 10. Bowyer, who had already paid $1.6 million in restitution prior to sentencing, pleaded guilty to running an illegal gambling business, money laundering, and filing a false tax return in August 2024.

The Court’s Rationale and Sentencing Details

Judge Holcomb emphasized the seriousness of Bowyer’s tax-related crimes, which he believed warranted custodial time. While prosecutors indicated a preference for a lighter sentence of 15 months, citing Bowyer’s cooperation in securing convictions against Ohtani’s ex-interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, the judge ultimately made a different determination.

Bowyer’s attorney, Kristen Bass, argued for home confinement instead of prison time, asserting that the only victims were those in the government and highlighting Bowyer’s ongoing recovery from gambling addiction. She stressed Bowyer’s unawareness of Mizuhara’s illicit activities related to Ohtani.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Responds

In counterpoint, Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen A. Williams noted the broader societal implications of Bowyer’s conduct, underscoring that his actions were not simply those of a troubled addict, but part of a large-scale operation that affected numerous lives. "Bowyer has been engaging with the media about this case, seeking notoriety amidst serious allegations," Williams pointed out in court.

Apology to Shohei Ohtani and Public Fallout

Speaking to the media after the hearing, Bowyer publicly apologized to Ohtani, stating, “If I were to see Shohei Ohtani, I would tell him I’m sorry that his name has a slight tarnish to it just being involved in this case.” He expressed understanding of Ohtani’s innocence in the situation, further showcasing a personal remorse for the incident’s impact.

Bowyer’s associate, Ryan Boyajian, who had received wire transfers from Ohtani’s account, was also present at the hearing. Boyajian had received immunity in exchange for his testimony but declined to comment during the proceedings.

Ongoing Investigation and Mizuhara’s Role

Bowyer operated a significant gambling enterprise with over 700 clients. The involvement of Mizuhara, who began placing bets with Bowyer after they met at a poker game in San Diego in 2021, came to light as Mizuhara made approximately 19,000 bets between December 2021 and January 2024. He lost close to $41 million and pilfered nearly $17 million from Ohtani to pay off his debts. Mizuhara is currently serving a 57-month prison sentence at FCI Allenwood Low in Pennsylvania.

Bowyer shared insights about Mizuhara’s gambling behavior, remarking, “He definitely was betting all night long, all the time. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

Conclusion

The verdict in this complex case highlights the serious ramifications of illegal gambling operations, not only for the individuals involved but also for the broader sporting community. It’s a stark reminder that actions in the world of sports can have far-reaching consequences, tarnishing reputations of even the most respected athletes. As investigations continue, this case serves to illuminate the shadowy intersections of gambling, sports, and legality.