BetEagle Sportsbook Defendants Sentenced to Prison: Owner Awaits Sentencing
A Bayonne, New Jersey man accused of racketeering conspiracy that pertained to what authorities says is an online sportsbook run by the Genovese Crime family has been sentenced to 22 months behind bars.
Eric Patten, 38, and Dominick J. Barone, 45, of Springfield, New Jersey were both sentenced Tuesday in Newark. Barone is looking at an 18-month prison term.
Patten and Barone previously pleaded guilty before District Judge Claire C. Cecchi to separate charges of one count of racketeering conspiracy.
Court documents list Joseph Graziano, 78, of Springfield as the principal owner of BetEagle.com.
Barone worked with Graziano in carrying out the daily activities of the website and both men conspired with the Genovese Crime Family of La Cosa Nostra in the operation of Beteagle, officials said.
If a bettor failed to pay his gambling losses, the crew used their La Cosa Nostra status and threats of violence to collect on these debts, according to court documents.
Graziano has already plead guilty for his role and awaits a June 25 sentencing date.
- Jagajeet Chiba, Gambling911.com
