A Measured Appearance in Federal Court
Chauncey Billups appeared in a federal courtroom in New York City on Monday and entered a not guilty plea to charges of wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy. The Portland Trail Blazers coach and former Detroit Pistons point guard is the most recognizable figure among the more than two dozen people indicted last month. Prosecutors say Billups served as a “face card” in the high-stakes private games under investigation.
Later in the day, U.S. District Judge Ramon E. Reyes released Billups on a five million dollar bond. NBC News reported that he put up his Colorado home as collateral. The bond conditions include a ban on gambling and a prohibition on contact with anyone tied to organized crime.
What Prosecutors Say Happened
The indictment outlines a high-stakes poker cheating ring with connections to the Bonanno, Gambino and Genovese crime families. The private games took place in the Hamptons, Las Vegas, Miami and Manhattan. One player was allegedly cheated out of 1.8 million dollars across a few sessions in New York City in 2023.
Prosecutors list several devices said to have been used to influence outcomes, including rigged shuffling machines, poker chip tray analyzers and tables capable of revealing card information. The equipment was allegedly supplied by Tony Goodson of Georgia, Curtis “Curt” Meeks of Texas, Shane “Sugar” Hennen of Pennsylvania and Robert “Black Rob” Stroud of Kentucky.
Kevin Garnett was also referenced as having taken part in some of the games, though no additional details were provided.
Dozens of Defendants, More Hearings Ahead
Billups is one of 31 defendants expected in court this week. The group includes former NBA player Damon Jones and alleged organizers Ammar Awawdeh, Saul Becher, John Gallo, Zhen Hu and Seth Trustman.
A recent court filing reported by Yahoo Sports noted that several defendants have begun early discussions about potential plea agreements.
Fallout in Portland
Billups, 49, was placed on leave from his position with the Trail Blazers after the indictment. Tiago Splitter is currently serving as interim head coach.
Operation Royal Flush Continues
Federal authorities refer to the investigation as Operation Royal Flush. As court appearances proceed, more information connected to the case continues to emerge.
