UPDATE: An illegal bookmaker tied to the former interpreter of Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has been sentenced to just over a year in prison. Mathew Bowyer, 50, received a sentence of 12 months and one day from U.S. District Judge John W. Holcomb on Friday, as authorities seek to address the impact of his extensive gambling operations.
Bowyer’s sentence also includes two years of supervised release, mandatory gambling addiction counseling, and an order to surrender to authorities by October 10, 2024. This decision comes after Bowyer paid $1.6 million in restitution prior to the sentencing, highlighting the financial implications of his actions.
In August 2024, Bowyer pleaded guilty to charges including running an illegal gambling business and money laundering. Judge Holcomb emphasized the significance of Bowyer’s tax-related crimes during the proceedings, stating, “Justice demands there be some custody time.” Prosecutors initially requested a lighter sentence of 15 months, citing Bowyer’s cooperation in securing convictions against Ippei Mizuhara, Ohtani’s former interpreter, and another bookmaker in Southern California.
Bowyer’s defense attorney, Bass, argued for home confinement, claiming that Bowyer’s actions primarily affected the government and that he is in recovery from gambling addiction. “He did not think he was taking advantage of anyone,” Bass asserted. This sentiment reflects a growing concern regarding the complexities of gambling-related crimes and their portrayal in the media.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen A. Williams countered this argument, indicating that Bowyer’s case extends beyond personal addiction. “He’s going out and talking to news media… there is a certain amount of notoriety that he is enjoying,” Williams stated, underscoring the societal implications of Bowyer’s extensive gambling operations.
Bowyer’s operations reportedly included over 700 clients, many of whom placed high-stakes bets. His association with Mizuhara began in 2021 at a poker game in San Diego, leading to Mizuhara placing at least 19,000 wagers from December 2021 to January 2024. Mizuhara lost nearly $41 million and stole almost $17 million from Ohtani to cover his debts.
ESPN’s investigations uncovered Mizuhara’s gambling activities in March 2024, after questions arose about millions in wire transfers from Ohtani’s account to Bowyer. Mizuhara is currently serving a 57-month sentence at FCI Allenwood Low, a low-security prison in Pennsylvania.
As this case unfolds, it highlights the intersection of professional sports, gambling, and legal accountability, raising questions about the impact of addiction and the responsibilities of those involved. The ramifications of Bowyer’s sentencing are likely to reverberate throughout the sports and betting communities, making this a developing story to watch closely.
