"The billionaire will have a chance to appeal and contest the charges laid against him, but has made a public statement via a gambling news outlet, The Straight. "My arrest on these matters has come as a shock to myself and my family. From the little I know of the allegations at this stage, I can only say that they are untrue and will be defended. I ask for both mine and my family's privacy be respected, and thank them for their support," said Escalante."
"A VGW spokesperson stated to ReadWrite that "We are aware of the serious charges made against Mr Escalante. These are unrelated to VGW and personal in nature. However, we can confirm Mr Escalante will be taking a leave of absence from his role as CEO and Executive Chairman of VGW." The company has made a conscious decision to separate Escalante from VGW's daily operations."
"The charges laid against VGW's Escalante on Friday, 30 January 2026, show offences that carry substantial penalties in relation to persistent family violence, aggravated assault, aggravated burglary, and drug supply offences. They include "trafficable quantities" of cocaine, MDMA, and ketamine, which have resulted in the three counts of possessing drugs with intent to sell or supply."
Laurence Escalante, founder and executive chairman of Virtual Gaming Worlds, faces multiple criminal charges in Perth including persistent family violence causing bodily harm, aggravated assault, aggravated burglary, and drug supply offences. Authorities allege he broke into multiple properties and possessed Class A drugs. Charges include "trafficable quantities" of cocaine, MDMA and ketamine and three counts of possessing drugs with intent to sell or supply. Escalante has denied the allegations and requested privacy for his family. He met a $100,000 bail bond, must remain in Western Australia, and is subject to a restraining order. VGW confirmed the charges are personal and Escalante will take leave.
Read at ReadWrite
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