Gang Member Denied Bail in NBA Fraud Case

A gang member linked to a fraudulent card game involving some NBA players was denied bail on Tuesday due to fears he might tamper with witnesses.

During a bail hearing in Brooklyn federal court, Judge Joseph Martro rejected Anthony Ruggiero Jr.’s bail request of $5 million, which was backed by family and friends. The judge concurred with federal prosecutors who expressed worries about the risk of Ruggiero interfering with witnesses if released.

In the proceedings, Martro cited a previous incident where Ruggiero allegedly threatened a witness, stating, “He put his hand in the shape of a gun and said, ‘You know up close and personal that we take care of rats.'” This statement raised significant concerns.

Ruggiero’s attorney, James Froccaro, argued that his client should be granted bail since other individuals allegedly involved in the scheme had been released despite facing serious charges. However, prosecutors highlighted Ruggiero’s past, noting he had a history of threatening witnesses.

According to the Justice Department, Ruggiero is accused of being part of a scheme to manipulate poker games at his Greenwich Village apartment. Reports indicated that the townhouse hosted high-stakes games run by some of New York City’s most powerful crime families, including the Gambino family.

Notably, the associate of the Gambino crime family, Ruggiero is the son of the late Angelo Ruggiero Sr., who was closely tied to infamous mob boss John Gotti. The alleged involvement of notable figures like Chauncey Billups, a Hall of Famer and current head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers, in attracting wealthy players adds another layer to this complex situation.