NEW YORK, NY – In a sweeping crackdown, the FBI has dismantled a vast criminal network involving illegal gambling and sports rigging that ties together elements from the NBA and organized crime families. The operation resulted in the arrest of over 30 individuals across 11 states, including former and current NBA figures such as Chauncey Billups, Damon Jones, and Terry Rozier.
The investigation uncovered a sophisticated scheme that spanned several years, involving wire fraud, money laundering, and extortion. The FBI’s efforts not only targeted fraud within the NBA but also extended to dismantling operations linked to notorious crime families, including the Bonanno, Gambino, Genovese, and Lucchese.
Charges against the defendants include conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. The operation, described by officials as historic in scale and deceit, involved tens of millions of dollars in fraudulent activities. The FBI, in collaboration with the NYPD and other law enforcement agencies, executed this complex takedown.
The indictments reveal a dual conspiracy: one involving insider sports betting using confidential NBA information, and another involving rigged poker games supported by organized crime. The former conspiracy exploited nonpublic details about NBA players and games, leading to significant illegal profits.
In the poker scheme, defendants used advanced cheating technologies to rig games, targeting victims who were unaware of the deceit. These games were often backed by crime families, further complicating the network of illegal activities.
The prosecution emphasized that while the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty, the evidence collected is substantial. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has vowed to bring those involved to justice, highlighting the operation as a significant victory against organized crime and corruption in professional sports.
The FBI director praised the tireless efforts of the law enforcement community, noting the importance of maintaining integrity within the entertainment industry. The operation underscores a commitment to eliminating criminal behavior at all levels, ensuring fair play both on and off the court.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the public is assured of transparency and due process, with the ultimate goal of restoring trust in sports and entertainment.