Federal Prosecutors Seek 57-Month Sentence for Mizuhara
US federal prosecutors have recommended a 57-month prison sentence for Ippei Mizuhara, former interpreter for baseball star Shohei Ohtani, following his conviction for theft and illegal gambling. Court documents filed on 30 January indicate that prosecutors are pushing for a “significant period of incarceration” ahead of Mizuhara’s sentencing on 6 February.
Mizuhara admitted to stealing $17 million from Ohtani and placing bets with an illegal bookmaker. Prosecutors contend that his actions were not the result of a long-standing gambling addiction, but rather a deliberate scheme. Documents reveal that he started gambling on DraftKings in 2023 after he had already misappropriated funds from Ohtani. US Attorney Jeff Mitchell stated that Mizuhara’s claims of remorse should be scrutinised by the court.
The sentencing hearing is scheduled for 1pm at the Ronald Reagan Federal Building in Santa Ana, California.
Wider Gambling Scandal Involving Mizuhara
Mizuhara pleaded guilty in June 2024 to multiple federal charges related to illegal sports betting. He placed bets through bookmaker Mathew Bowyer, who is due for sentencing in April. Bowyer is linked to a larger illegal betting operation that also involves former minor-league player Wayne Nix, with allegations of money laundering through casinos in Las Vegas and Southern California.
The case has garnered widespread attention due to Mizuhara’s ties to Ohtani. Thus far, former Las Vegas casino executive Scott Sibella remains the only individual sentenced in connection with the scandal.
Wyoming Delays Online Gambling Decision
A proposed bill to legalise online gambling in Wyoming has been postponed until next week following a legislative committee session on 30 January. HB 162 was set for discussion but was deferred due to time constraints.
Two Wyoming tribes, the Northern Arapaho and Eastern Shoshone, voiced their opposition, citing concerns over revenue losses. Northern Arapaho chairman Keenan Groesbeck stated that digital sports betting has already negatively impacted tribal earnings, while Clinton Glick of the Shoshone Business Council argued that expanded gaming options could further harm tribal revenues.
The bill proposes a 16% tax on online gambling operators and a $100,000 licence fee. The Wyoming Gaming Commission would oversee regulatory implementation, with a deadline set for 31 December.
Alabama Lawmakers to Debate Gambling Expansion
Ahead of Alabama’s legislative session starting on 4 February, the debate over gambling expansion has intensified. Advocacy groups and political organisations have begun campaigns both in support of and against legalising various forms of gambling.
The Alabama Policy Institute has launched an anti-gambling website, arguing that legalisation would increase government size and lead to social issues. Meanwhile, media outlets have called on residents to engage in the debate as lawmakers consider a broad gambling expansion, including online betting. A similar proposal failed in the final stages of last year’s session.
NBA’s Terry Rozier Under Investigation for Betting Allegations
Miami Heat player Terry Rozier is reportedly under investigation by the US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York over potential links to an illegal betting ring. The Wall Street Journal reported on 30 January that unusual betting patterns were detected during a Charlotte Hornets game against the New Orleans Pelicans in March 2023, when Rozier left early due to a foot injury.
The NBA previously investigated the incident but found no rule violations. However, the league is now cooperating with federal authorities in a broader probe. The case follows the lifetime ban of former NBA player Jontay Porter, who pleaded guilty to fixing games for betting gains.
Hawaii Considers Digital Sports Betting Legalisation
Hawaii lawmakers are set to review two bills, HB 1308 and SB 1569, that would legalise digital sports betting and regulate fantasy sports. The bills, referred to the state’s Economic Development Committee on 27 January, propose licensing up to four betting platforms and a 10% tax on adjusted gross gaming revenue.
Hawaii currently has no legal gambling, including a state lottery. Several proposals to introduce regulated betting have been discussed in previous sessions, with renewed efforts this year.
Mississippi Senator Seeks to Ban Sweepstakes Gambling
Mississippi Senator Joey Fillingane has introduced SB 2510, a bill aimed at banning unregulated sweepstakes-style online gambling. The legislation, filed on 20 January, would classify online race books, sports pools, and sweepstakes casinos as illegal gambling devices. Violations could result in felony charges, including fines up to $100,000 and prison sentences of up to 10 years.
While online gambling remains illegal in Mississippi, lawmakers have periodically pushed for digital wagering regulations. In contrast, New Jersey is pursuing taxation and regulation of online sweepstakes instead of outright prohibition.
British Columbia to Open New Sports Lounges
The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) has announced plans to open two new retail sportsbooks. The first, located at Chances Casino Kelowna, will host a preview event on Super Bowl Sunday before its official opening on 10 February. The facility will feature a 25-foot video wall and sports betting terminals.
A second sportsbook is set to launch at Parq Casino in Vancouver in March, with BCLC stating that these venues aim to enhance the sports betting experience for visitors.
Casino Scam Alert in California
Chukchansi Casino in California has issued a warning about fraudulent social media ads promoting fake online casino services and bonuses. The casino clarified that it has no affiliation with these offers and urged customers to verify promotions through official channels.