In a significant federal crackdown, former NBA star Gilbert Arenas, along with five other defendants, was arrested on Wednesday in connection with an illegal gambling operation that allegedly hosted high-stakes poker games at an Encino mansion owned by Arenas. The indictment, which was unsealed on the same day, claims that the group had been running the illegal gambling business since September 2021.
Arenas, 43, known as “Agent Zero” during his playing career, faces multiple charges, including conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business, operating an illegal gambling business, and making false statements to federal investigators. He is scheduled to make his initial appearance in court later this afternoon in downtown Los Angeles.
The other defendants include Yevgeni Gershman, 49, a suspected member of Israeli organized crime, Evgenni Tourevski, 48, Allan Austria, 52, Yarin Cohen, 27, and Ievgen Krachun, 43. Each of them is charged with conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business. They are also set to appear in court the same afternoon.
The indictment details how Arenas rented out his Encino mansion for high-stakes poker games, with Gershman and the others managing these illegal operations. They reportedly collected a “rake” from each game and facilitated various aspects of the gambling setup, including hiring staff like drink servers and security personnel. Gershman specifically was accused of recruiting young women to serve drinks and provide companionship to players, while also imposing a “tax” on their earnings.
Additionally, Gershman faces further charges related to immigration fraud. He allegedly conspired with 35-year-old Valentina Cojocari to enter into a sham marriage to gain permanent residency in the U.S. The two reportedly provided false information on immigration documents.
It’s important to note that an indictment reflects allegations made by prosecutors, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If convicted, each defendant could face a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for each count.
The investigation is being carried out by Homeland Security Investigations, the LAPD’s Major Crimes Division, and the IRS Criminal Investigation unit. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samuel J. Diaz, with Assistant United States Attorney Ryan J. Waters handling the asset forfeiture portion.
As this case unfolds, it sheds light on the serious legal repercussions associated with illegal gambling operations, particularly those involving high-profile figures.