Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas has been indicted on federal charges for allegedly running an illegal high-stakes poker ring out of his Los Angeles-area home. The 43-year-old, best known for his time with the Washington Wizards, is facing three felony counts: conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business, conducting the gambling business itself, and making false statements to federal investigators. Each charge carries a potential sentence of up to five years in prison.
Federal prosecutors allege that Arenas hosted regular poker games between 2021 and 2022, where players were charged fees from each pot—a structure commonly referred to as a “rake,” which is illegal under federal law. The games reportedly included professional-level amenities such as chefs, security personnel, valet services, and women providing drinks and massages. Arenas is among six individuals charged in the case, which also names a man believed to be connected to organized crime. He pleaded not guilty at his arraignment in Los Angeles and was released on a $50,000 bond. The case remains under investigation.
