In gambling fraud prosecutions, the government’s case frequently hinges on the evidence. This may include Betting records, Financial transactions, and communications between co-defendants. The pending case against former NBA player Damon Jones illustrates all three.

Jones is expected to become the first defendant among the more than 30 people charged in this federal investigation to enter a guilty plea.

A change-of-plea hearing is scheduled for April 28 in Brooklyn federal court.

Two Schemes, One Defendant

The government has charged Jones with two separate but related schemes. The first involves the alleged sale of non-public injury information to sports bettors. The second involves participation in rigged poker games. Both cases include charges of wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy.

According to court filings, Jones allegedly communicated with gamblers via text message about player availability before that information appeared on official NBA injury reports.

In February 2023, prosecutors say, Jones texted an unnamed individual that LeBron James would not play that evening against the Milwaukee Bucks, adding that the recipient should place a bet before the news became public. James was later ruled out. The Bucks won.

A second incident from January 2024 involved a $2,500 payment from a bettor named Marves Fairley. Prosecutors allege Jones provided a tip that Anthony Davis would face playing time restrictions due to injury. Fairley placed a $100,000 wager on the Oklahoma City Thunder. Davis played his usual minutes. The Lakers won. Fairley requested a refund.

Alleged Ties to Organized Crime

The allegations about poker describe a different type of fraud. Prosecutors say organizers used altered shuffling machines, hidden cameras, specialty sunglasses, and X-ray equipment built into the table to gain advantages over unsuspecting players. Former NBA players, including Jones, allegedly served as bait to attract victims.

Court documents indicate Jones was paid $2,500 for participating in a game in the Hamptons. He was instructed to monitor other players and to fold when uncertain.

Jones responded via text: “y’all know I know what I’m doing.”

Federal prosecutors also allege the poker operation had ties to organized crime. Games were reportedly run with the involvement of the Gambino, Genovese, and Bonanno families, who received a share of proceeds. When debts went unpaid, court documents state, family members committed assault, extortion, and robbery to enforce collection.

Background and Next Steps

Jones was arrested in October alongside Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups, Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, and others. He remains free on bail. His attorney, Kenneth Montgomery, previously informed a judge that plea negotiations were possible.

For those who may not be aware, Jones played 11 NBA seasons across 10 teams, earning more than $20 million. He was teammates with LeBron James in Cleveland and later served as an unofficial assistant coach for the Los Angeles Lakers. He also worked as a shooting consultant for the Cavaliers and was on the coaching staff when Cleveland won the 2016 NBA championship.

Federal Criminal Defense Representation

If you are facing federal charges, including wire fraud, money laundering, conspiracy, or gambling offenses, securing experienced legal representation is critical. An attorney can evaluate the government’s evidence, explain your options, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your circumstances.

At Bukh Law Firm, we represent clients in federal cases, white-collar matters, conspiracy allegations, and fraud investigations. To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation, leave your contact information on our online form.