Sports

Orix Pitcher Not Indicted Over Online Gambling

TOKYO, Apr 24 (News On Japan) - Orix Buffaloes pitcher Taisuke Yamaoka, who had been referred to prosecutors for allegedly gambling on online casino platforms, will not face indictment, prosecutors announced on April 23rd.

Yamaoka had been under investigation for betting approximately 27,000 yen on an online casino site in 2021. During voluntary questioning by police, he admitted to the allegations, reportedly stating that he spent around 3 million yen on such platforms over a two-year period beginning in the autumn of 2021. He also claimed that the websites had Japanese-language notices saying the activity was "not illegal," and said he had no awareness that he was breaking the law.

Prosecutors explained their decision not to indict by saying they had considered the outcome of the investigation along with various other factors.

In a statement released after the announcement, Yamaoka said, "I am sorry for causing concern to my fans. I will do my best to contribute to the team."

Source: YOMIURI

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