Five arrested on professional gambling charges in sting operation
COLUMBUS, Ind. (WISH) – Five people have been arrested and a sixth is being sought in a sting operation by the Indiana Gaming Commission.
According to 24-Hour News 8’s partner The Republic, an investigation began in January and uncovered professional gambling on Mexican soccer games. In some cases, bettors were promised the opportunity to win up to $5000 on a $10 wager.
Search warrants were issued April 29 and served at Mi Tierra and La Guanajuato, two Columbus grocery stores where several of the arrests were made.
According to Bartholomew Circuit Court documents, 55-year-old Mauricio Nolasco-Vazquez was arrested on charges of felony corrupt business influence, felony professional gambling and promoting professional gambling.
31-year-old Oswaldo Martinez-Ramirez, 34-year-old Jessica Hernandez-Cruz and 37-year-old Florencio Roblero-Aguilar all face felony charges of professional gambling and promoting professional gambling.
48-year-old Manuel Villalbazo was charged with felony professional gambling.