Gilbert Arenas Arrested in Alleged Illegal Gambling Business in Los Angeles

Liputan6.com, Jakarta Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas is back in the public spotlight after being arrested on Wednesday, July 30, 2025.

He has been charged with federal charges for allegedly operating an illegal gambling business out of his mansion in Encino, California.

This arrest marks the latest chapter in Arenas's legal troubles, adding to a long list of incidents involving him outside of the professional basketball court.

The case centers on allegations that Arenas rented out his property to host illegal high-stakes poker games, complete with lavish amenities and a well-organized staff.

Federal authorities allege this illegal operation ran from September 2021 to July 2022, with Arenas allegedly profiting from each game.

He has pleaded not guilty to the charges and is free on bail pending his next court appearance.

Gilbert Arenas was arrested on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, after being indicted on federal charges related to the alleged operation of an illegal gambling business.

The charges include conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business, operating the illegal gambling business itself, and making false statements to federal investigators.

The illegal gambling operation allegedly took place at a luxury home owned by Arenas in Encino, California.

Federal prosecutors allege that the business operated from September 2021 to July 2022.

The modus operandi involved renting the home to host high-stakes Pot Limit Omaha poker games.

The game manager allegedly collected a "rake," or percentage of each pot, which was the core of the illegal business.

The operation was described as highly organized, with chefs, valets, and armed security guards to create a luxurious and safe environment for players.

Young women were even employed to serve drinks, provide massages, and escort players, with the operator also collecting a percentage of their tips.

In addition to Arenas, five other individuals were arrested and charged in the case, including Yevgeni "Giora" Gershman, an alleged high-ranking member of an Israeli transnational organized crime group.

Gershman also faces charges related to marriage fraud and false statements on immigration documents.

Arenas pleaded not guilty on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, in United States District Court in Los Angeles and was released on $50,000 bail. His trial is scheduled for September 23.

This latest arrest isn't Gilbert Arenas' first run-in with the law.

He has a history of significant legal issues during and after his NBA career.

The most notorious incident occurred in December 2009, when he got into an argument with teammate Javaris Crittenton over a gambling debt.

The argument culminated in the two pointing guns at each other in the Washington Wizards locker room.

As a result of this incident, Arenas was charged in January 2010 with illegal firearm possession in Washington, D.C.

He later pleaded guilty to a felony charge of carrying a pistol without a permit outside a home or business.

As a result, Arenas was suspended for most of the 2009-2010 NBA season and sentenced to two years of probation and 30 days in a correctional facility.

In addition to the firearms charges, Arenas was also arrested on June 27, 2013, by the LAPD for illegal possession of fireworks.

This series of incidents demonstrates a pattern of legal troubles that has continued to plague the former basketball star, even after his professional retirement.

Gilbert Jay Arenas Jr., born January 6, 1982, in Tampa, Florida, is an American former professional basketball player known by the nicknames "Agent Zero" and "The Hibachi."

He stands 6 feet 1 inches tall and weighs 200 pounds (98 kg), playing point guard or shooting guard.

Arenas attended Grant High School and the University of Arizona before beginning his NBA career.

He was selected by the Golden State Warriors in the second round of the 2001 NBA Draft.

During his career, Arenas played for the Golden State Warriors (2001–2003), the Washington Wizards (2003–2010), the Orlando Magic (2010–2012), and the Memphis Grizzlies (2012).

He also played for the Shanghai Sharks of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) in 2012.

Arenas' NBA accomplishments include three-time NBA All-Star (2005, 2006, 2007) and NBA Most Improved Player (2002–2003).

Known as a natural, physical, fearless scorer, and able to shoot from anywhere on the court, Arenas is also a strong passer and possesses strong defense.

After retiring from the NBA, he actively hosts podcasts and daily sports shows.

In his personal life, Arenas has four children with Laura Govan and recently married social media influencer Melli Monaco on January 20, 2025.