Former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas has been arrested in Southern California in connection with an alleged illegal gambling operation, according to a report from TMZ. The arrest is part of a federal indictment accusing Arenas of running high-stakes poker games out of his Encino mansion between September 2021 and July 2022. He is expected to appear in court later today.
According to the indictment, Arenas, along with five co-defendants, organized and profited from underground card games held at his residence. The Justice Department alleges that Arenas directed Arthur Kats, 51, of West Hollywood, to prepare the mansion for hosting, secure additional conspirators to facilitate the events, and collect rent on Arenas’ behalf.
Also named in the indictment is Yevgeni Gershman, a 49-year-old Israeli national with alleged ties to organized crime. Authorities claim Gershman brought in young women to serve drinks, provide massages, and offer companionship to players in exchange for tips. The women were reportedly required to pay a “tax”, a percentage of their earnings, to participate. The games were also staffed with chefs, valets and armed security, according to the DOJ.
Arenas faces three federal charges: one count of conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business, one count of operating an illegal gambling business, and one count of making false statements to federal investigators. Each charge carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison if convicted.
This latest arrest follows another legal issue involving former NBA forward Marcus Morris, who is facing fraud charges for allegedly writing bad checks at Las Vegas casinos. Authorities say Morris used insufficient funds to secure $115,000 at the MGM Grand in May 2024 and another $150,000 from the Wynn in June. A Florida judge recently denied his bond request.