RCMP Carries Out More Raids, Arrests in Connection with Platinum SB
The Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of the RCMP Wednesday morning arrested two more individuals in connection with running what it deemed to be an organized crime-linked bookmaking operation that also has ties to the Hell’s Angels.
Police arrested Michael Kriaris, 39, of Toronto, and Augustino Valenzisi, 43, of Vaughan. Both face charges related to engaging in bookmaking and committing an offence to benefit a criminal organization.
Warrants have also been issued for ***********, 47, Jeffrey Fuchs, 35, and Hiesam Kadri, 41, police said.
“The arrests today are the third phase of the investigation into illegal gaming and Platinum Sportsbook,” Superintendent Keith Finn said in a statement.
Two previous raids resulted in the arrests of several individuals. 18 men arrested during a Super Bowl party have all since posted bail including one whose bail was set at an unprecedented $1 million.
Law enforcement seized the Platinum SB domain name. The business is still believed to be operating out of Costa Rica however.
- Gilbert Horowitz, Gambling911.com
