In a scandal reminiscent of a Hollywood thriller, an intricate poker gambling scheme orchestrated by the mafia has been exposed, ensnaring celebrities, professional athletes, and wealthy gamblers. The operation, which began as early as 2019, allegedly employed advanced technology, including X-ray card tables, secret cameras, and rigged shuffling machines, to cheat victims out of millions of dollars. According to federal prosecutors, the scheme was masterminded by members of notorious crime families such as Bonnano, Gambino, Luchesse, and Genovese, who used the profits to fund their criminal enterprises. The victims, referred to as ‘fishes,’ were lured into high-stakes games by former professional athletes, who acted as ‘face cards’ to entice them. Unbeknownst to the players, everyone involved—from dealers to the technology itself—was part of the scam. Sophisticated wireless communication methods were used to relay information to conspirators, ensuring the victims had no chance of winning. The scheme, which spanned New York, Miami, Las Vegas, and other cities, was dismantled in a federal investigation leading to over 30 arrests, including NBA coach Chauncey Billups and former player Damon Jones. Authorities estimate that victims lost tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars per game, with one individual reportedly losing $1.8 million. The funds were allegedly laundered through cryptocurrency, cash exchanges, and shell companies. FBI Assistant Director Christopher Raia described the scheme as ‘mind-boggling,’ emphasizing its exploitation of both notoriety and wealth to finance organized crime.
X-ray tables, high-tech glasses and NBA players: How a poker scheme allegedly stole millions
