Feds Get First Conviction Of Illegal Gambling Ring Tied To Casey Urlacher

Casey Urlacher, brother of ex-Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher, might have bigger concerns now. The first reports of an illicit gambling ring have emerged since February when federal agents apprehended Casey Urlacher for his supposed involvement.

On July 2, a member of the ring admitted guilt to a single charge of conspiring to run an unlicensed gambling operation. However, the implications this will have for the rest of the group members remain uncertain.

What we know about Casey Urlacher’s possible responsibility

The arrest documents state that Casey Urlacher allegedly played a “middleman” role in an illegal scheme. He is accused of recruiting bettors, arranging their wagers, and handling payments. Allegedly, Urlacher took a portion of the losses from the bets he arranged. The Department of Justice claims Urlacher was involved in these activities while serving as the mayor of Mettawa, IL.

Urlacher has not yet faced any charges regarding the allegations. If he pleads guilty or is found innocent, he may receive a statement similar to what another participant in the ring is currently receiving. On July 2, in an IL federal court, Eugene “Geno” DelGiudice admitted his participation in the ring. He played a role similar to the one Urlacher is accused of for three years, involving the collection of payments and distribution of profits.

According to the Department of Justice, the ring was supposedly headed by Vincent, the son of DelGiudice. However, despite Eugene DelGiudice’s unwillingness to deny any of the accusations made against his son, there was not enough evidence to find him guilty.

DelGiudice Sr. faces a potential five-year prison sentence. Urlacher could receive the same maximum penalty if convicted. However, it is possible that Urlacher might negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecution, providing evidence against DelGiudice Jr. to secure a lesser punishment.

Whether or not that happens, Urlacher’s story could be a cautionary tale for residents of Illinois. Illegal gambling is a risky and costly business.

The drawbacks of improper sports betting

Illegal sports betting is detrimental to Illinois residents, regardless of whether law enforcement takes action to halt unlawful gambling activities such as the DelGiudice ring. This is also true for offshore websites and illicit bookmakers.

Opting for a legal sportsbook provides better protection for customers. If a disagreement occurs that the operator’s customer service cannot resolve, bettors have the option to request help from the Illinois Gaming Board.

Obtaining certification ensures that gamblers receive their earnings promptly. However, it does not stop a gaming service involved in illicit activities from withholding your winnings for several months or even longer.

Another advantage of registered books is that they benefit even those in Illinois who never gamble. The tax revenue generated from legal bets funds pensions and other public services.

Probably the greatest advantage of legal gaming is the support it provides to individuals with compulsive gambling issues. These individuals are often the victims of illegal activities.

Options for legal sports betting are available in Illinois due to the legalization of both online and physical casinos. Therefore, using unauthorized channels like the DelGiudice circle is simply too risky and unnecessary.