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A series of arrests in New Jersey has pulled a long-running illegal betting network into the open, and investigators say the case stretches from college sports circles to a group tied to the Italian mafia. Authorities outlined the allegations on Thursday after a lengthy probe across two counties, noting that more than two million dollars in wagers flowed through the network.
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Authorities describe a setup that functioned like a shadow sportsbook, with layers of subagents and handlers funneling wagers to leaders within the Perna family. According to the New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin, the group handled large betting action despite widespread access to regulated sportsbooks in the state.
Platkin explained the continued appeal of unregulated operations in a written statement. He said:
“Despite the proliferation of legal betting of all kinds, gambling remains a mainstay of members and associates of organized crime.”
He added:
“The locations and methods may have evolved, but illegal gambling – in this case, sports betting – remains a problem, and we will charge those who seek to profit from it.”
Authorities say the structure revolved around 55-year-old Lucchese crime family member Perna, based in Fairfield. Several relatives played central roles, including sons, nephews, and a stepson. The New Jersey AG office said the group faces racketeering, conspiracy, gambling offenses, and money laundering charges.
Joseph R. Perna, described in court documents as the day-to-day organizer, allegedly coordinated bets with subagents and handled communication within the network. Investigators also say “Little Joe” Perna financed the operation and helped sustain betting activity even during slow periods.
Officials identified several subagents: Anthony Perna, Frank Zito, Dominic Perna, and Michael Cetta. These individuals allegedly recruited bettors, collected payments, and managed customer accounts. Six additional men with no family ties are accused of directly running sportsbooks tied to the network.
One of those men, Spencer Speziale, recently obtained certification as an agent of the National Basketball Players Association. A source told ESPN that Speziale has no active clients.
Investigators say the case extends beyond family connections. New Jersey authorities report that multiple college athletes at unnamed schools accepted wagers, raising compliance concerns. An NCAA spokesperson told ESPN reporter David Purdum that officials are reviewing the matter.
The 14 defendants made initial court appearances on Thursday. According to Theresa Hilton, director of the division of criminal justice of New Jersey, additional hearings will be arranged later as prosecutors prepare the next steps.
Officials allege more than two million dollars in illegal sports wagers flowed through the network.
The New Jersey Attorney General office is handling the case along with the division of criminal justice.
No. Authorities say athletes at unnamed schools accepted wagers, and the NCAA is reviewing the information.
No specific leagues were mentioned. Officials only said the wagers related to unspecified sports.