Federal authorities charged Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups and 30 others with operating an illegal poker ring tied to New York mafia organizations. Prosecutors say the network used hidden cameras, marked cards, and special eyewear to defraud players of millions across locations from Manhattan to Miami. Billups and former player Damon Jones allegedly recruited wealthy participants through their fame before cheating devices gave conspirators an advantage at tables.
The scheme generated more than $7 million that moved through shell corporations and digital currency accounts linked to the Bonanno, Gambino, and Genovese families, according to court documents. The Trail Blazers placed Billups on leave amid conspiracy and wire fraud allegations. Investigators have not revealed whether the former Finals MVP operated the technology or simply brought victims to games.
The scheme generated more than $7 million that moved through shell corporations and digital currency accounts linked to the Bonanno, Gambino, and Genovese families, according to court documents. The Trail Blazers placed Billups on leave amid conspiracy and wire fraud allegations. Investigators have not revealed whether the former Finals MVP operated the technology or simply brought victims to games.
