A sweeping FBI investigation has led to dozens of arrests, including prominent NBA figures and alleged mafia members, in a major crackdown on illegal sports betting and rigged poker games. Miami Heat player Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups are among those indicted.
Illegal Sports Betting Allegations
Rozier, 31, faces charges related to betting irregularities, including claims of faking injuries to influence gambling markets. Prosecutors detailed a case where Rozier allegedly informed a friend he would leave a. Game early due to injury, leading to over $200,000 in bets against his performance. He played nine minutes, scored five points, resulting in significant profits for the bettors, while former NBA player Damon Jones is also implicated in similar schemes involving other games. The NBA has placed both Rozier and Billups on immediate leave, emphasizing the integrity of the game.
Rigged Poker Games and Mafia Involvement
Chauncey Billups and 30 others are charged in a separate case involving illegal, mafia-linked poker games. The indictment names four major New York crime families, while prosecutors allege victims were lured into games with high-profile sports stars, only to be defrauded of millions using sophisticated technology like special contact lenses, pre-marked cards, and X-ray tables. Damon Jones is also linked to these rigged games. FBI Director Kash Patel called the arrests "extraordinary," highlighting tens of millions in fraud across an 11-state operation.
Reactions and Legal Stance
Rozier's lawyer denied the allegations, stating his client is "not a gambler" and looks forward to fighting the charges. Both Rozier and Billups were released on bond. US Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr. warned defendants, "Your winning streak has ended. Your luck has run out," while reminding of the presumption of innocence. The investigation underscores the challenges posed by illegal gambling in the era of legalized sports betting.
