BREAKING: Federal prosecutors are poised to unveil charges in a sweeping college basketball betting scandal that could involve multiple teams and players from schools across the South. Investigators are zeroing in on potential game-fixing activities linked to former NBA player Jontay Porter, with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Eastern Pennsylvania reportedly interviewing athletes suspected of deliberately influencing game outcomes.
This urgent investigation is unfolding nationwide, with sources indicating that charges could be filed imminently. The scrutiny, as reported by Sports Illustrated, encompasses unusual betting patterns in at least nine college basketball games over the past two seasons, involving at least five different teams. As authorities continue to pursue leads, this number may rise, igniting significant concern throughout collegiate athletics.
In a parallel development, the NCAA is conducting its own reviews of several institutions, including the University of New Orleans and Eastern Michigan, amid allegations of improper betting practices. An internal investigation at the University of New Orleans commenced in January 2023, leading to the removal of four players from the roster by early February 2023. Interim athletic director Vince Granito emphasized the issue’s broader implications for college sports across the country, stating, “This is not just a single institution problem; it affects us all.”
Eastern Michigan also received an inquiry notice from the NCAA around mid-January, prompting requests for cell phone records from five individuals. Betting watchdogs had flagged two of the team’s games for unusual wagering activity, raising alarms about the integrity of the sport.
Crucially, up to now, authorities have arrested five individuals connected to the scheme tied to Porter, with four pleading guilty to charges of conspiring to commit wire fraud. Prosecutors are preparing to charge a sixth individual, Shane Hennen, who was arrested earlier this year and faces serious allegations, including money laundering. Court documents reveal that the operation utilized stand-ins and fake bettors, resulting in millions of dollars in illegal gains.
The existing charges specifically pertain to two incidents where Porter allegedly feigned injuries to manipulate prop bets. However, court proceedings suggest that the fraudulent activities may be far more extensive than initially believed. Prosecutors have already mandated some defendants to forfeit over $500,000, but they are still deliberating on the restitution owed to victims of this elaborate scheme.
As the investigation unfolds, the impact on college basketball could be profound, affecting players’ careers and institutions’ reputations. The NCAA’s actions, alongside federal prosecution, will be closely monitored as more details emerge in this developing story.
Stay tuned for updates as this situation continues to evolve, with potential ramifications for the integrity of sports and the individuals involved.