Five members of the Lucchese organized crime family pleaded guilty to operating an illegal online betting operation named Rhino Sports, raking in almost $25 million over 25 years. U.S. Attorney John J. Durham highlighted the dangers posed by such illegal businesses, emphasizing the need for enforcement against organized crime. Anthony Villani, a key figure in the operation, agreed to a plea deal involving significant forfeiture and a prison sentence. Officials warned that the Mafia's persistent presence signals ongoing risks linked to illegal gambling and organized crime activities in contemporary society.
"Illegal gambling businesses require enforcement and protection from mob rivals that carry the persistent threat of violence," said U.S. Attorney John J. Durham in a statement announcing the guilty pleas.
The men pleading guilty in this case illustrate how entrenched the traditional mafia are in their noxious and familiar criminality," said James E. Dennehy, assistant director in charge of the New York field office.
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