Trail Blazers Coach Chauncey Billups Pleads Not Guilty in Alleged $7 Million Rigged Poker Scheme
Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups pleaded not guilty to federal charges of money laundering and wire fraud conspiracy in an alleged mob-run, rigged poker scheme that defrauded victims of $7 million.
Overview
Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups pleaded not guilty in federal court to charges stemming from an alleged mob-run, rigged poker scheme.
Billups faces serious federal charges including money laundering and wire fraud conspiracy, each carrying a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
Prosecutors allege Billups acted as a celebrity 'face card' in the operation, which defrauded victims of an estimated $7 million starting in at least 2019.
After pleading not guilty, Billups was released on a $5 million bond, secured by his family's Colorado home, and placed on unpaid leave from coaching.
His release conditions include refraining from gambling, avoiding contact with co-defendants or victims, surrendering his passport, and limiting travel to seven states.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover the story neutrally, focusing on the legal proceedings and allegations without adopting an evaluative stance. They balance prosecutors' detailed claims with Billups' not-guilty plea and his lawyer's defense, consistently attributing serious accusations. The reporting prioritizes factual accounts of court events and the nature of the charges.
Sources (8)
FAQ
Chauncey Billups pleaded not guilty to federal charges of money laundering and wire fraud conspiracy related to an alleged rigged poker scheme.
The alleged rigged poker scheme defrauded victims of approximately $7 million starting in at least 2019.
Billups was released on a $5 million bond secured by his family's home, placed on unpaid leave, and ordered to refrain from gambling, avoid contact with co-defendants or victims, surrender his passport, and limit travel to seven states.
Prosecutors allege Billups acted as a celebrity 'face card' used by organized crime families to help organize and legitimize the rigged poker games.
Yes, former player Damon Jones and current Miami Heat player Terry Rozier have been arrested and charged in related schemes involving rigged poker games and illegal sports betting.
History
5 sources