US authorities announced several high-profile arrests on Thursday, including of a star player and a coach in the National Basketball Association (NBA), for alleged illegal sports betting. Among those in custody are Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat player Terry Rozier, both of whom were reportedly arrested after their teams' games on Wednesday.
The arrests are part of a sweeping investigation into illegal gambling that produced two indictments, the FBI said — one into players who are allegedly faking injuries to influence betting odds, and another involving an illegal poker ring tied to organised crime.
What are the allegations?
FBI Director Kash Patel described the allegations to reporters as mind-boggling. They include indictments in two major cases, officials said, both involving fraud. The first case, called operation nothing but bet, involves players and associates allegedly using insider information to manipulate wagers on major sports betting platforms. In some cases, players altered their performance or took themselves out of games to ensure those bets were paid out, according to New York City police commissioner Jessica Tisch.
The second case, involving four of the five major crime families in New York, is more complex and includes accusations of rigging illegal poker games and stealing millions using advanced technology.
Which players have been arrested?
Authorities say 34 defendants were indicted on charges related to the two fraud cases. Six were charged in the first case of players allegedly faking injuries to influence betting odds, including Rozier. Another former NBA player, Damon Jones, was also arrested in connection with these schemes.
What has the NBA said?
The NBA stated it is reviewing the federal indictments and cooperating with authorities. Rozier and Billups are on immediate leave from their teams as the league addresses the seriousness of the allegations.
Who are New York's notorious 'Five Families'?
The alleged scheme involved four of the five well-known crime families of New York, known as the Bonanno, Colombo, Gambino, and Genovese families. Despite significant crackdowns in the past, evidence suggests that organized crime remains an influential force in various illegal activities, including gambling.
