WASHINGTON (Gray DC) - More than 30 people have been charged in two federal gambling-related investigations, including a current NBA coach and player.
The cases involve illegal sports betting and rigged poker games tied to the Mafia.
FBI director Kash Patel calls the two fraud schemes a “sweeping criminal enterprise that envelops both the NBA and La Cosa Nostra,” stretching across years and 11 states.
Thursday morning, it was announced dozens of people had been charged for crimes involving wire fraud, money laundering, and extortion following two operations: “Nothing But Net”, investigating confidential NBA information shared to change betting odds; and “Operation Royal Flush”, focused on New York Mafia crime families running rigged underground poker games. The scheme featured former and current NBA stars drawing in unknowing victims with the promise of playing with the pros.
In total, 37 people were charged between the two cases, including current NBA player Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups. 3 defendants were listed in _both_ indictments.
“Your winning streak has ended,” said Joseph Nocella, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York. “Your luck has run out. Violating the law is a losing proposition - and you can bet on that.”
The NBA released a statement on social media following the arrests, saying “We are in the process of reviewing the federal indictments announced today. Terry Rozier and Chauncey Billups are being placed on immediate leave from their teams, and we will continue to cooperate with the relevant authorities. We take these allegations with the utmost seriousness, and the integrity of our game remains our top priority.”
Meanwhile on Capitol Hill, the indictments have drawn the attention of lawmakers. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D, CT), the former Connecticut Attorney General, said, “We need national legislation relating to gambling, not only because of the potential for corruption but also for addiction.” Blumenthal has previously sponsored legislation focused on gambling.
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