Federal authorities unveiled a significant poker rigging scheme involving organized crime and prominent figures from the NBA, resulting in 31 indictments. This scheme, which manipulated games since April 2019, employed advanced technology to exploit wealthy players, known as “fish” or “whales.” The case shines a light on the intersection of high-stakes gambling and organized crime, highlighting the role of the Mafia in these operations.
Mafia’s Techniques in Rigging Poker Games
The illegal poker games primarily featured Texas Hold ’em. The defendants allegedly deceived players into thinking they were participating in straight games against other wealthy individuals. In reality, many players at the table colluded to rig the outcomes.
Key Figures in the Scheme
- Robert “Black Rob” Stroud: Key orchestrator of the scheme.
- Chauncey Billups: Renowned NBA Hall of Famer, implicated in several games.
- Damon Jones: Former NBA player and coach, involved in the high-stakes games.
- Michael Renzulli: Played a significant role in coordinating player winnings.
- John Mazzola: Acts as the quarterback, signaling to other players during games.
Execution of the Rigging Scheme
The operation relied heavily on technology to manipulate card games. Shuffling machines were rigged to transmit the order of cards to operators outside the game. Some setups included X-ray tables and hidden cameras, enhancing the ability to determine card values. Select players could even utilize specialized contact lenses to see marked cards.
Maintaining the Illusion
To retain unsuspecting players, the conspirators occasionally allowed them to win. For instance, during a game in September 2024, co-conspirators strategized via text to let a certain player win to keep him engaged. This approach was also evident when Billups and Jones participated, as they manipulated game outcomes to reduce suspicion.
Connections to Organized Crime
The Mafia, specifically La Cosa Nostra, played a central role in the poker rigging scheme. Several crime families, including the Bonanno and Gambino families, were involved in providing protection and support for these illegal operations. Reportedly, they merged existing poker games into the rigging scheme.
Financial Maneuvering
In addition to organizing games, the conspirators dealt with various financial aspects, employing infamous Mob tactics. In November 2022, coercive methods were reportedly used to collect gambling debts, including threats and assaults. Furthermore, some defendants engaged in money laundering through shell companies.
Impact on Victims
Victims lost an estimated $7.15 million due to these rigged games. One individual reported losses of $1.8 million from staged games in mid-2023 alone. This scandal not only tarnished the integrity of poker but also raised serious concerns regarding the influence of organized crime in sports and gambling.
Legal Consequences
Following their arrests, Chauncey Billups appeared in court, securing release on bond while agreeing to surrender his passport. His next court appearance is scheduled for November 24. His legal team has expressed intentions to contest the charges against him.
Conclusion
This case illustrates the complex interplay between gambling, technology, and organized crime, highlighting the need for increased vigilance in protecting the integrity of professional sports and gaming environments. The FBI and other federal agencies continue their investigation into these illegal activities, aiming to dismantle such schemes thoroughly.
