Gambino Mobster Anthony Ruggiero Jr. Denied Bail Over NBA Poker Rigging, Witness Tampering Concerns

Anthony Ruggiero Jr., a reputed mobster with ties to the Gambino crime family and the son of the late Angelo “Quack Quack” Ruggiero Sr., was denied bail amid concerns he might tamper with witnesses if released. Judge Joseph Marutollo rejected Ruggiero's $5 million bond request, citing past behavior where Ruggiero threatened a witness with a gun gesture and the statement, “You know how we take care of rats — up close and personal.” Federal prosecutors highlighted his prior conviction for witness tampering while incarcerated, reinforcing fears of potential interference with legal proceedings. Ruggiero is implicated in a scheme to rig high-stakes poker games in Manhattan, involving NBA figures such as Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups and former player Damon Jones, who allegedly acted as "face cards" to attract gamblers. The scandal exposes a network of mob-related sports gambling and poker rigging, with multiple indictments connected to New York City's powerful crime families. Other accused conspirators have been arraigned or await arraignment dates, underscoring the ongoing federal investigation into this high-profile NBA-linked gambling scandal.