Gilbert Arenas Arrested for Allegedly Running Gambling Ring

Gilbert Arenas Arrested for Allegedly Running Illegal Gambling Ring

Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas was arrested Wednesday, accused of running high-stakes card games out of his California mansion.

Former Washington Wizards guard Gilbert Arenas was taken into custody in Southern California on Wednesday after federal prosecutors accused him of operating an illegal gambling business.

According to court documents obtained by TMZ, Arenas — along with five other defendants — allegedly rented out his Encino mansion to host exclusive, high‑stakes card games between September 2021 and July 2022.Prosecutors claim Arenas brought in a 51‑year‑old associate to help stage the property and collect rent, while his partners allegedly hired women to serve guests, plus chefs, valets, and security guards to create a VIP experience for the players.The group allegedly profited by taking a rake — a cut from each pot — during the games.Arenas and the other five defendants now face two federal charges:

Conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling businessOperating an illegal gambling business

If convicted on both counts, prosecutors say Arenas could face up to five years in prison per charge.The 43‑year‑old former NBA star is expected to make his first court appearance later Wednesday.

Once known for his sharpshooting on the court, Arenas now faces serious legal trouble off of it — with years of prison time potentially on the line.