3 weeks ago
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Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas has been arrested and charged with allegedly running an illegal, high-stakes poker ring out of his home in the Los Angeles area.
Arenas is charged along with five other defendants, including one Israeli man who prosecutors claim is a “suspected organized crime figure”.
Prosecutors have charged 43-year-old Arenas with three federal crimes, including operating an illegal gambling business and making false statements to investigators.
During a court appearance on Wednesday, Arenas pleaded not guilty and was released pending trial after paying a 50-thousand US dollars bond.
According to the indictment, between September 2021 to July 2022 Arenas rented out his mansion in Encino to be used for illegal poker games.
Prosecutors say he directed his co-defendants to prepare the home for games, and to collect a “rake” – money taken from each pot which goes to the organisers.
Co-defendant Yevgeni Gershman, who officials label a “suspected organised crime figure from Israel”, was allegedly responsible for hiring young women to “serve drinks, provide massages and offer companionship” to players, in exchange for tips.
English (US) ·