Grimey Times has exclusively learned that a massive fraud operation, implicating the NBA’s Chauncey Billups and members of three major crime families, has been uncovered by federal agents. In what law enforcement officials are calling ‘a sophisticated and lucrative scheme,’ 31 defendants were charged with rigging illegal poker games across various locations in New York City, East Hampton, and throughout the United States.
Among those nabbed in this sprawling conspiracy were members and associates of the Bonanno, Gambino, and Genovese organized crime families of La Cosa Nostra. The operation also ensnared Chauncey Billups, head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers, as well as former NBA player Damon Jones, known on the court as ‘Dee.’ These defendants are alleged to have connived with high-stakes gamblers and unsuspecting victims to rig the outcomes of these illegal games.
Today’s arrests followed a years-long investigation led by the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Joseph Nocella, Jr., in collaboration with the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the NYPD, and the New York Waterfront Commission. Chauncey Billups and his cohorts are accused of using technology, including rigged shuffling machines and specialized lenses, to guarantee losses for their unsuspecting opponents.
“As alleged, members and associates of organized crime families fixed illegal poker games as part of a highly sophisticated fraud scheme to cheat victims out of millions,” stated Nocella. “Well-known former NBA players, acting as ‘Face Cards,’ lured victims into high-stakes games where they were at the mercy of concealed technology.” The indictment marks the end of this fraudulent enterprise, according to Nocella.
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the international scope of the operation, noting that it spanned 9 states. “Today over 30 people were arrested and charged for their alleged roles in criminal schemes to rig illegal poker games,” Patel said. “These individuals used technology and deceit to scam innocent victims out of millions of dollars.”
HSI Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel highlighted the collaboration between federal agencies, saying, “This operation was a testament to the dedication of law enforcement. Over four years ago, HSI New York uncovered this operation and worked tirelessly with our partners to bring these criminals to justice.” The charges against Chauncey Billups and the other defendants are severe, and they face lengthy prison terms if convicted.
Related Federal Cases
Key Facts
- State: New York
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News