39 Charged in NJ Gambling Ring, 37 Arrested

A two-year investigation led by New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin has resulted in charges against 39 individuals, including members of the Lucchese crime family and a New Jersey councilman, for operating an illegal gambling ring that generated $3 million. The charges include racketeering, gambling offenses, and money laundering, and were announced after law enforcement executed search warrants at multiple locations, including poker clubs and businesses in North Jersey. Among those charged are George J. Zappola, a member of the Lucchese ruling panel, and Anand Shah, a Prospect Park councilmember. The operation involved illegal poker games, online sports betting, and the use of shell corporations to launder money. The investigation highlights the organized and violent nature of the gambling enterprise, which authorities are committed to dismantling. Law enforcement has already arrested 37 of the suspects, with two more arrests pending.