Feds detail tangled web of ties in ‘Greek’ gambling ring
Federal prosecutors detail a complex web of illegal gambling and extortion involving 22 defendants in Northwest Indiana.Summary
Federal prosecutors have unveiled a 28-count indictment against 22 individuals involved in an alleged illegal gambling ring operating out of two Northwest Indiana restaurants. The case, dubbed 'Operation Porterhouse Parlay,' centers on James 'Jimmy the Greek' Gerodemos and Dean 'Dean Gem' Gialamas, who allegedly ran the operation from Gino's Steakhouse and Paragon. The indictment details a scheme where leaders pressured victims to collect gambling debts, with Andrew Nguyen identified as a victim who was threatened after falling behind on his own $7,500 debt. Prosecutors are seeking a superseding RICO indictment and are arguing for the continued detention of Gialamas, citing flight risks and significant unexplained assets. The investigation relied on extensive evidence, including wiretaps, iCloud data, and undercover recordings.
(Source：Chicago Tribune)