LOS ANGELES (Diya TV) — Federal agents arrested former NBA star Gilbert Arenas and five others Tuesday for running an illegal gambling operation in Los Angeles. The indictment alleges they hosted high-stakes poker games at an Encino mansion owned by Arenas.
Authorities say Arenas, 43, known as “Agent Zero,” allowed his property to be used for the games and directed others to organize the events. The accused faces serious charges tied to conspiracy, illegal gambling, and false statements.
The indictment was returned on July 15 and unsealed Tuesday morning. It charges Arenas and co-defendants with operating an illegal gambling business from September 2021 to July 2022. Arenas, a former Washington Wizards star, is accused of lying to federal investigators during the probe.
The mansion in Encino became the hub for underground “Pot Limit Omaha” poker games. The games drew wealthy players and charged a “rake,” or house fee, from each pot. Authorities say profits were high, and the games were tightly managed by a network of individuals.
Along with Arenas, five other defendants were arrested Tuesday. They include Yevgeni Gershman, 49, of Woodland Hills, who investigators describe as a suspected member of a transnational organized crime group from Israel.
Also arrested were Evgenni Tourevski, 48, of Tarzana; Allan Austria, 52, of West Hills; Yarin Cohen, 27, of Tarzana; and Ievgen Krachun, 43, of Tarzana. All are charged with conspiracy and operating an illegal gambling business.
The group allegedly ran poker nights with the help of chefs, valets, and armed guards. Young women served drinks, offered massages, and socialized with players. They were tipped by players and paid a percentage of their earnings, called a “tax” to the organizers.
Krachun worked as a chip runner, keeping track of wins and losses, managing chips, and paying employees.
Gershman faces additional charges for immigration fraud. Prosecutors say he conspired with Valentina Cojocari, 35, of Woodland Hills, to enter a fake marriage. The goal was to gain permanent residency in the United States.
According to the indictment, Gershman and Cojocari submitted false information on immigration documents. They denied any law enforcement encounters and claimed no intent to engage in illegal gambling or vice. Both were arrested and are expected to appear in federal court on Tuesday.
All defendants, including Arenas, are scheduled to appear in the United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. If convicted, each faces a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for each count.
Federal officials emphasized that the charges are allegations and that the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations’ Northridge Office, the Los Angeles Police Department’s Major Crimes Division, and IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel J. Diaz of the Transnational Organized Crime Section is leading the prosecution. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan J. Waters is handling asset forfeiture.
Gilbert Arenas played 11 seasons in the NBA and became known for his high-scoring performances. He retired in 2012. Since then, he has remained in the spotlight through media appearances and social media.
