Neighbors Unaware as Mafia Operated Secret Poker Games Behind Closed Doors
In Manhattan, a clandestine poker operation linked to the infamous Bonanno crime family has been unveiled. The scheme, according to prosecutors, involved illegal high-stakes games held in an apartment building. Allegedly, the operation was a collaboration among four Mafia families and some prominent athletes, resulting in more than $7 million in fraud losses.
Recent Developments and Arrests
Last week, authorities arrested 31 individuals, including notable figures like Chauncey Billups, head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers, and former NBA player Damon Jones. They face charges related to an extensive conspiracy to rig illegal poker games. Billups’ attorney has denied the allegations, while representatives for Jones have yet to comment.
Involvement of Mafia Families
- Members and associates from four Mafia families were implicated.
- Their roles included providing security for the games and claiming a share of the earnings.
- Violence and intimidation were reportedly used to collect debts from players.
Community Response
Despite the serious allegations, neighbors remained largely unaware of the gaming activities. Local residents from the “Curry Hill” neighborhood expressed shock upon learning the news. Many daily activities continued as normal, indicating a disconnect from the elaborate scheme happening nearby.
A shop owner commented, “These things happen every day in the city,” reflecting a sense of desensitization to crime. Another resident, surprised by the revelation, shrugged it off, seemingly unfazed by the implications of local Mafia involvement.
Perception of the Underworld
Local business owners, like Sajjad Chowdhury from Curry in a Hurry, noted that the Mafia’s presence in the community has historically been discreet. “They live in the shadows,” he stated, highlighting that low-profile operations are commonplace.
How Poker Games Operate
Insiders indicate that underground poker games are typically invitation-only, functioning like a hidden social network. The entry fees can be exorbitant, often reaching thousands of dollars, with even higher stakes for wealthier participants.
- Players are lured in by the celebrity presence, which creates a façade of legitimacy.
- High-profile athletes allegedly participated to enhance the allure of the games.
Technological Advances in Cheating
Investigators revealed sophisticated cheating tactics used in the games. Hidden cameras and rigged shuffling machines allowed operators to manipulate outcomes without players’ awareness. Marked cards, visible only through special lenses, further compromised the integrity of the games.
Historical Context of Mafia Operations
The Manhattan poker case illustrates the Mafia’s evolving tactics in modern times. Once dominant across various sectors from labor to illegal gambling, their influence has diminished but not disappeared. Former FBI agent Joe Cantamessa noted that while traditional operations have lessened, Mafia families have adapted by moving into new illicit markets.
The recent crackdown on these poker games highlights the continuing legacy of organized crime in New York City. As the city changes, the shadows of the past remain, with secrets hidden just beneath the surface of everyday life.
