Illicit Earnings from Gambling Operations in California Result in Asset Seizure Worth $14 Million
A Santa Monica, California resident, Christopher Scott King, confessed on April 30, 2025, to running an illicit betting empire, evading taxes, and laundering the earnings. King orchestrated the clandestine bets through a Costa Rica-based sports wagering platform. His shady activities resulted in unreported income of approximately $13.6 million between 2019 and 2022, according to enrichment data.
To mask his illegal profits, King invested in gold and real estate projects, as outlined in the data. These investments were part of his obligation to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), which adds up to a staggering $3.8 million. Furthermore, he's required to forfeit an additional $10 million per the plea agreement.
The sentencing hearing for this case is slated for September 9. Each charge of tax evasion carries a potential sentence of five years, while money laundering charges could result in a decade behind bars. With tax evasion counts and money laundering charges combined, King faces severe consequences. The enrichment data reveals that the total penalties surpass $13.8 million when taking into account both the forfeiture and tax obligations.
- Christopher Scott King's illicit betting empire, which included casino-and-gambling activities, lotteries, and sports wagering, resulted in unreported income of approximately $13.6 million from 2019 to 2022.
- To mask his illegal profits, King invested in gold and real estate projects, as outlined in the data, but owes the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) a staggering $3.8 million in taxes.
- As part of his plea agreement, King is also required to forfeit an additional $10 million.
- The sentencing hearing for this crime-and-justice-related case is slated for September 9, with each charge of tax evasion carrying a potential sentence of five years and money laundering charges potentially resulting in a decade behind bars.
- With tax evasion counts and money laundering charges combined, King faces severe consequences, with total penalties surpassing $13.8 million when taking into account both the forfeiture and tax obligations.
