Gallery Owner Hillel Nahmad to Plead Guilty in Russian Mob-Linked Gambling Case
Overnight, Gambling911.com brought you the story of how “Donovan” producer Bryan Zuriff was begging for leniency as he is due to be sentenced for his role in a Russian mob-tied online sports betting and poker ring. Today we are learning that one of the alleged key figures in the ring, art gallery owner Hillel Nahmad, is set to plead guilty later today (Tuesday, November 12, 2013).
Nahmad was expected to plead guilty to a single charge of illegal gambling, according to the New York Times. The gallery owner was also charged with money laundering conspiracy and wire fraud conspiracy. He is represented by power attorney Ben Brafman, who confirmed Tuesday afternoon’s scheduled court appearance with the Times.
Nahmad was one of 33 charged in a sweeping racketeering case involving a Russian-based online gambling venture. Also charged, and yet to plead guilty, is one Molly Bloom, dubbed the “Poker Princess”. She is alleged to have hosted high stakes poker games for the crew. In attendance at these games were the likes of Hollywood A-Listers, Wall Street power brokers and professional athletes.
Nahmad was facing up to 96 years in prison. Mr. Nahmad would also pay $6.6 million in restitution. His family is worth around $3 billion.
- Jagajeet Chiba, Gambling911.com
