Poker Players Have Winning Hand in NY Case

(Associated Press) - A handful of professional card players have won permission to play in legal, high-stakes poker games while the case plays out. They include a popular baby-faced player named Justin "Boosted J" Smith.

Lawyers for the pro players have argued their clients make a legitimate living playing poker. They say the players should be able to pursue their careers until the case is resolved _ and a judge has agreed.

The 25-year-old Smith pleaded guilty last week to playing a role in the international sports betting scheme. He's free on bail _ and free to play poker _ until his sentencing in January.