Former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas, known as “Agent Zero,” was arrested on federal charges for allegedly operating an illegal gambling ring at his Encino mansion. According to a federal indictment unsealed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California, Arenas and five others organized high-stakes poker games from September 2021 through July 2022.
Alleged Operation Details
Federal prosecutors say Arenas rented his luxury Encino home to host illicit poker events. The indictment states he directed an associate, Arthur Kats, to stage the mansion, recruit co‑conspirators, and collect rent on his behalf. One of the co‑defendants, Yevgeni Gershman, allegedly linked to an Israeli transnational crime group, was accused of managing “Pot Limit Omaha” games and collecting a house rake on each pot.
Prosecutors also allege that Gershman hired young women who served drinks, gave massages, and provided companionship to players. The women reportedly paid a cut of their tips as a “tax.” Staff such as chefs, armed security, and valets were reportedly employed during the games. Another defendant, Ievgen Krachun, allegedly acted as a chip runner and tracked betting activity for the operation.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Arenas, 43, faces three felony counts: conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business, operating an illegal gambling business, and making false statements to federal investigators. Prosecutors allege he lied in a petition seeking the return of seized funds, falsely denying involvement in the gambling activity on the night of July 19, 2022.
He pleaded not guilty at his arraignment in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles and was released on $50,000 bond. His trial is scheduled to begin on September 23, 2025. If convicted, each felony carries a maximum sentence of up to five years in federal prison, though sentences may run concurrently.
Public Reaction and Legacy
Arenas remains defiant. After his release, he posted a video on social media, walking out of the courthouse dancing and declaring, “They can’t hold me.” The video featured a smirking Arenas walking down stairs with the message: “This ain’t got s— to do with me” and “Wasn’t a part of the festivities.”
This arrest and indictment arrive decades after Arenas’ controversial NBA tenure. Once a three‑time All‑Star with the Wizards, he was suspended in 2010 following a locker‑room gun incident and later faced firearm and gun‑possession charges. Since retiring in 2012, he has hosted podcasts including Gil’s Arena and worked as an NBA analyst.