West Caldwell Resident Among Those Charged in Major Illegal Gambling Ring Linked to Lucchese Crime Family
CALDWELLS, NJ — In a significant crackdown on organized crime, authorities announced the arrest of 37 individuals, including West Caldwell’s Steven Bongo, in connection with a two-year investigation into a sprawling illegal gambling operation tied to the Lucchese crime family. State prosecutors revealed that the gambling ring facilitated online sports betting and operated risky poker clubs across North Jersey, amassing over $3 million in suspected criminal proceeds.
New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin, alongside the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ) and the New Jersey State Police, confirmed that Bongo, 65, served as a "sportsbook sub-agent" within this extensive network. Investigators conducted raids on four poker clubs located in Passaic and Bergen counties, uncovering operations hidden in the backrooms of legitimate businesses. Authorities also searched a Paterson facility storing illegal gambling machines, along with multiple residences of accused participants.
The investigation identified high-level managers who orchestrated the gambling activities and profited from the operation. Other defendants face charges related to hosting poker games, working in the clubs, and managing bettors on an illegal online sportsbook. Disturbingly, two individuals among the accused are linked to thefts from local retailers, having allegedly stolen $22,000 worth of home improvement goods to renovate properties, further compounding their illicit earnings.
This multifaceted operation underscores a significant law enforcement effort to dismantle organized crime activities in the region. As this story continues to unfold, further developments are anticipated.
Reporting by Michelle Rotuno-Johnson, Patch staff.
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