Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas is facing serious legal trouble after being indicted in connection with an illegal gambling ring based in Southern California. According to federal prosecutors, Arenas and several others allegedly ran underground poker games out of his Encino mansion, turning the property into a high-end venue for high-stakes gambling between late 2021 and mid-2022.
Authorities say the operation went far beyond casual games. Arenas is accused of working with others to organize and profit from the events, which reportedly featured hired staff, including servers, chefs, valets, and security. Prosecutors also claim that Arenas brought in a 51-year-old associate to help manage the setup and collect rent from the players.
The alleged gambling ring was discovered during a raid in 2022, when LAPD officers and federal agents found more than two dozen players and a dozen staff members at Arenas’ home. Officials believe the group was earning money by taking a portion from each pot played during the games.
“Gilbert Arenas was arrested in Southern California on Wednesday after authorities say he ran an illegal gambling business,” according to court records obtained by NBC.
In total, Arenas and five other individuals are facing two charges each: conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business and operating an illegal gambling business. Each charge carries a possible five-year prison sentence. In addition, Arenas has been hit with a separate charge for allegedly lying to federal investigators during the probe.
The 43-year-old former Washington Wizards player is currently in custody and was scheduled to appear in court later on Wednesday. The case is still developing, with more information expected to emerge in the coming days as the investigation continues.
