Michael Freedman Represented Shohei Ohtani’s Former Interpreter in High-Profile Federal Criminal Case

The Freedman Firm Founder Michael G. Freedman represented Ippei Mizuhara, former interpreter for Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani, in a high-profile federal criminal case that drew international media attention. Mizuhara pleaded guilty to bank fraud and filing a false tax return in connection with the theft of nearly $17 million from Ohtani to cover gambling debts.

As Mizuhara’s criminal defense attorney, Michael represented him throughout the federal proceedings, including sentencing in February 2025. Michael advocated for a reduced sentence, emphasizing Mizuhara’s history of gambling addiction, acceptance of responsibility, and personal circumstances. Mizuhara was ultimately sentenced to 57 months in federal prison.

The widely publicized case underscores Michael’s experience representing individuals facing serious federal criminal charges, including complex financial crimes and white collar matters. A former federal prosecutor, Michael regularly handles high-stakes criminal defense cases in Los Angeles and throughout the country, including matters involving prominent individuals and extraordinary public scrutiny.

Read more:

• Feds Seek 57-Month Sentence for Mizuhara for Defrauding Ohtani (ESPN)
• Former Shohei Ohtani Interpreter Ippei Mizuhara Begins 57-Month Prison Sentence (The Athletic)
• Ippei Mizuhara, Shohei Ohtani’s Ex-Interpreter, Reports to Federal Prison in Pennsylvania (CBS News)
• The Case of Shohei’s Translator: Michael Freedman Repped the Man Who Nearly Sank the Dodgers Season (Southern California Super Lawyers Magazine)