United States Official Denied Bail in Mafia Gambling Scheme
A local elected official in New Jersey is at the center of a major illegal gambling investigation involving the Lucchese crime family.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:Anand Shah, 42, a councilman in the small borough of Prospect Park, is accused of running underground card rooms and online betting operations for nearly a decade. Prosecutors allege he laundered more than $1 million through these activities and used both personal and political accounts to disguise the funds.
Shah Denied Bail in Detention Hearing
The investigation, which began in December 2022, has resulted in charges against 39 individuals. Authorities say Shah’s role as a central figure in the operation emerged early in the investigation. He now faces multiple charges, including racketeering and money laundering.
Shah, who has served as a councilman for nine years, was denied bail during a detention hearing on Tuesday. Officials said he managed illegal gambling locations as early as 2016 and continued through late 2024. Evidence includes thousands of messages obtained via wiretaps, surveillance, and a confidential informant who said Shah pressured him to host games to repay debts.
Shah allegedly used his political influence to help his co-defendant, Roberto Aliano, obtain a government job. Aliano was released after a hearing.
Financial institutions and payment apps repeatedly shut down Shah’s accounts due to suspicious activity, prosecutors said. In response, Shah reportedly opened new accounts and even used his teenage son’s CashApp profile to continue transferring money.
Related: 17 Suspected Gambino Mobsters Charged in Major Gambling Scheme
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Illegal Proceeds Hidden with Legitimate Money
A search of Shah’s home on April 9 uncovered nearly $400,000 in cash. Authorities say he mixed illegal proceeds with legitimate earnings from a Subway restaurant he owned and his political campaign account. From late 2019 to mid-2023, Shah sent over $570,000 to co-conspirators using CashApp, Zelle, and various bank accounts.
The gambling ring operated physical poker clubs and slot-style machines at multiple New Jersey locations. It also included an online sportsbook based in Costa Rica. Key figures in the operation included high-ranking members of the Lucchese crime family, such as George Zappola and Joseph “Big Joe” Perna.
The group held meetings across the state, including at restaurants and cafes, and reportedly coordinated with members of another crime family based in Philadelphia.
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