Mobster Joseph Perna Charged in NJ Multimillion-Dollar Betting Ring
BREAKING: New Jersey authorities have charged 14 individuals, including alleged mafia associate Joseph M. “Little Joe” Perna, in connection with a multimillion-dollar illegal gambling operation that reportedly involved student athletes. The charges were announced just moments ago by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office.
This urgent update reveals that Perna, aged 55 and allegedly affiliated with the Lucchese crime family, faces serious charges including racketeering, conspiracy, and money laundering. Investigators assert that Perna managed a “nationwide network” of bookmakers, with operations allegedly overseen on a daily basis by his son, Joseph R. Perna, aged 25. Authorities claim the network enticed individuals to place bets totaling $2 million between 2022 and 2024.
The stunning indictment follows a federal investigation that unveiled connections between Lucchese associates and other organized crime families regarding fixed poker games. Among those charged are notable figures in the sports world, including Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups, Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, and former NBA player Damon Jones. Billups’ attorney has vehemently denied any involvement, while Rozier’s legal team stated he “looks forward” to contesting the case. Jones has entered a not-guilty plea in court.
According to New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice director Theresa L. Hilton, the alleged scheme operated as a sophisticated sports betting operation, utilizing offshore gambling websites and targeting college students. Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin emphasized that despite the legalization of betting, illegal gambling remains a significant concern, continuing to thrive among organized crime networks.
Platkin remarked, “While locations and methods have evolved, illegal gambling persists,” urging college students of legal age in New Jersey to gamble responsibly on legal platforms. He added, “Do not engage in operations backed by organized crime,” advising that this serves as his “parental advice” to students.
As this story develops, the full implications of the charges on both the individuals involved and the broader landscape of illegal gambling in New Jersey remain to be seen. Authorities are expected to continue their investigation into the extensive network and its impact on the community.
Stay tuned for updates as we monitor this unfolding situation.
