Gilbert Arenas arrested poker game LA
Did NBA star Gilbert Arenas break federal law by running underground poker games?
Former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas arrested and charged with operating an illegal high-stakes poker ring out of a rented Los Angeles residence, federal authorities confirmed Wednesday. Known as “Agent Zero” during his basketball career, Arenas now finds himself at the center of a seven-count federal indictment tied to underground gambling, conspiracy, and false statements to investigators.
What do we know about the charges against Gilbert Arenas and his alleged poker operation?
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Arenas and seven others are accused of orchestrating luxury poker events between September 2021 and July 2022 at a property located on Gable Drive in Encino, a quiet Los Angeles neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley. Prosecutors allege that Arenas personally rented the residence to host games attended by wealthy players, during which organizers charged an illegal “rake” fee from each pot — a critical factor that transforms friendly card games into criminal gambling enterprises under federal law.
A custom-made poker felt labeled “Arenas Poker Club” with the basketball legend’s name and No. 0 jersey image was allegedly used at the events, adding to the operation’s visibility and branding. Authorities claim this wasn’t just recreational poker — it was a structured, for-profit gambling network operating outside legal bounds.
Among the eight people charged are:
Yevgeni “Giora” Gersham, Evgenni “Eugene” Tourevski, Allan “Elicia” Austria, Yarin “YC” Cohen, Arthur Kats Ievgen, Krachun Valentina Cojocari
The federal indictment includes charges of illegal gambling, false statements, immigration fraud, and conspiracy to defraud the U.S.. Authorities say the group collected illegal profits while evading taxes and proper licensing.
Did Gilbert Arenas lie to investigators about the poker operation?
Yes, prosecutors allege that Arenas knowingly made false statements to federal investigators during the course of their probe — a separate charge that could carry significant penalties if proven. His legal team has not yet issued a statement in response to the allegations.
One of the most shocking aspects of the indictment involves immigration fraud claims against co-defendants Gersham and Cojocari, who allegedly entered a sham marriage to bypass U.S. immigration laws. Court records also accuse Cojocari of making false statements on immigration paperwork and misusing a visa.
Arenas, along with the other defendants, was arrested without incident by a joint task force from the LAPD, Homeland Security Investigations, and the IRS Criminal Investigation Division. All are expected to appear in federal court this week for their arraignment.
