Former NBA player Gilbert Arenas has been arrested and charged with conspiracy and operation of an illegal gambling business, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California. The charges include one count of conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business, one count of operating an illegal gambling business, and one count of making false statements to federal investigators. Arenas allegedly conducted these activities from September 2021 to July 2022 at a mansion located in Encino, California, which he owned.

In a court appearance on Wednesday, Arenas pleaded not guilty to the charges. He has since been released on a $50,000 bond and is set to appear for his trial on September 23. Alongside Arenas, five other individuals have also been charged with conspiracy and illegal gambling operations, including Yevgeni Gershman, identified as a suspected figure in organized crime from Israel.

Reports indicate that Arenas is accused of using the mansion to host high-stakes poker games, particularly Pot Limit Omaha (PLO). It is alleged that another individual, Arthur Kats, managed the operations under Arenas' direction, taking charge of the hosting arrangements and collecting payment from co-conspirators. The events reportedly featured various services, including hired young women for drink service, massages, and companionship for players, alongside staff for cooking, valet services, and security. Should the defendants be convicted, they face substantial penalties, with a maximum of five years in federal prison for each count. Arenas, facing three counts, could potentially see a maximum sentence of 15 years if convicted. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samuel J. Diaz, who specializes in Transnational Organized Crime.