Feds Charge “Agent Zero” in California Gambling Ring
Gilbert Arenas, once known for lighting up NBA courts as “Agent Zero,” is now back in the headlines — and not for anything basketball-related. The former Washington Wizards star has been arrested and charged by the Department of Justice in connection with an illegal gambling ring involving a suspected Israeli crime figure.
According to federal authorities, Arenas, 43, was hosting high-stakes poker games out of a rented mansion in Encino, California. However, the DOJ alleges that Arenas conspired to operate an illegal gambling business, ran the operation, and even lied to federal investigators about his involvement.
He’s now facing three federal charges:
- Conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business
- Operating an illegal gambling business
- Making false statements to investigators
Arenas is expected to appear in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles this afternoon.
DOJ Reveals Details of the Illegal Poker Operation Involving NBA Star
The indictment, unsealed July 29, paints a picture of a well-organized gambling den complete with chefs, valets, security guards. And even young women hired to serve drinks, give massages, and provide companionship all for tips and under a “tax” system.
Federal prosecutors say Arenas rented out the property. But associate Arthur Kats handled logistics, recruited co-conspirators, and collected rent. However, multiple types of poker, including “Pot Limit Omaha,” were reportedly played, with a rake fee charged from every pot.
Other defendants include:
- Yevgeni Gershman (“Giora”), suspected Israeli organized crime figure
- Evgenni Tourevski (“Eugene”)
- Allan Austria (“Elica”)
- Yarin Cohen (“YC”)
- Ievgen Krachun
Furthermore, all six men are accused of working together from September 2021 to July 2022 to run the underground games.
With a career that earned him over $100 million, Arenas seemed far removed from scandal. But this federal indictment may change the legacy of one of the NBA’s most colorful former stars.
Read the full DOJ release here.
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