In a shocking revelation that seems straight out of a Hollywood thriller, a major poker fraud scheme has been exposed, involving various high-profile individuals from professional sports, including former NBA players and infamous mafia members. This elaborate operation reportedly exploited wealthy gamblers, or 'fishes', who sat down at elaborate poker tables with no idea they were destined to lose.
The scheme has drawn the attention of U.S. authorities due to its audacity and complexity, which included the use of X-ray technology to read card values, hidden cameras, and specially designed glasses that provided conspirators with a distinct edge during games. Prosecutors revealed that victims had lost a staggering $7 million in total, with one individual alone facing a loss of $1.8 million.
Unwittingly sitting at these tables, players believed they were competing in legitimate games of Texas Hold 'Em. Instead, they were surrounded by a network of co-conspirators, including card dealers and even players who were in on the scam, all using state-of-the-art technology to manipulate the outcomes.
FBI officials described the operation as a 'mind-boggling' fraud scheme, reminiscent of an 'Ocean's Eleven' style plot. The extensive network operated across major cities such as New York, Miami, and Las Vegas, leading to over 30 arrests, including that of noted basketball coach Chauncey Billups and former NBA player Damon Jones.
Beginning as early as 2019, the scheme was reportedly funded by notorious crime families, including the Bonnano and Gambino families, with a portion of the illicit gains aiding in their broader criminal enterprises.
As investigations continue, the fallout has reached the NBA, with coaches and players placed on leave while cooperating with ongoing inquiries. Authorities maintain that this fraudulent enterprise not only exploited individual gamblers but also served as a serious blow to the integrity of professional sports.
