Former MLB Star Yasiel Puig Found Guilty of Obstruction in Federal Gambling Case
LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Yasiel Puig, the former Major League Baseball outfielder known for his dynamic play with the Los Angeles Dodgers, was found guilty Friday of obstruction of justice in connection with a federal investigation into illegal gambling activities. The 35-year-old Cuban-born athlete now faces a potential sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison, with sentencing scheduled for May 26.
The verdict came after a weeks-long trial that drew significant attention, featuring testimony from Major League Baseball officials and Donny Kadokawa, a Hawaii-based baseball coach linked to Puig and the illegal gambling ring. Prosecutors detailed how Puig had placed substantial bets on tennis, football, and basketball games, resulting in losses exceeding $280,000 over several months in 2019.
Puig, who has not played in an MLB game since 2019, initially pleaded guilty in August 2022 to lying to federal agents during the investigation. Despite this, his defense attorney, Keri Curtis Axel, argued that the government failed to establish critical elements of the case and announced plans to file post-trial motions in an effort to clear Puig’s name.
The case highlights ongoing federal efforts to combat illegal sports gambling, an issue that has drawn increased scrutiny from agencies such as the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The investigation into Puig’s activities was part of a broader crackdown on unlawful wagering operations that threaten the integrity of professional sports.
Puig’s conviction underscores the legal risks faced by athletes and others involved in gambling schemes, especially as the sports betting industry expands nationwide following recent changes in legislation. The U.S. government’s gambling resources note that while sports betting is legal in many states, illegal operations remain a significant concern for law enforcement.
During his MLB career, Puig was celebrated for his powerful hitting and charismatic presence on the field, primarily with the Dodgers but also with other teams. His fall from grace serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of engaging in illicit gambling activities and obstructing federal investigations.
As the case moves toward sentencing, the sports world and legal community alike will be watching closely. The outcome could set a precedent for how federal courts handle similar cases involving athletes and gambling violations. For more information on federal gambling laws and enforcement efforts, visit the Office of Justice Programs and the United States Courts websites.
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