Gilbert Arenas, Others Face Federal Poker Charges

Former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas, also known as 'Agent Zero,' was arrested along with five others on federal charges for allegedly running an illegal high-stakes poker ring at his Encino, California mansion from September 2021 to July 2022. Prosecutors claim Arenas directed co-conspirators to organize the property for poker games, collect a rake from players, and require women serving at the games to share a portion of their tips. Among those arrested is Yevgeni Gershman, suspected of ties to Israeli organized crime, and some defendants face additional immigration and marriage fraud charges. Arenas faces three charges, including conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business, operating an illegal gambling business, and making false statements to federal investigators. The arrests have attracted attention due to Arenas's public profile and his son Alijah, a top USC basketball recruit, who is recovering from injury. All six defendants are scheduled for arraignment in federal court in Los Angeles.