Federal indictment targets alleged illegal betting network in Indiana

A federal grand jury indictment unsealed in Northwest Indiana has charged 22 individuals in connection with alleged illegal gambling activities and violent extortion tied to a large-scale sports betting operation.

The investigation, led by the FBI alongside the Internal Revenue Service’s criminal division, centres on James “Jimmy the Greek” Gerodemos, a restaurateur from Schererville who authorities claim orchestrated the multi-state enterprise. 

According to court filings, the operation is alleged to have involved illegal sports betting services supported by financial networks and multiple associates.

As part of the coordinated enforcement action, federal agents carried out raids across numerous locations, including private residences, restaurants and financial institutions. 

Properties linked to the suspects have been identified for potential forfeiture as the case progresses.

Several defendants appeared in federal court in Hammond following the raids, with authorities also identifying individuals by aliases referenced in the indictment. 

Law enforcement activity was observed at multiple sites, including businesses in Merrillville and Hobart, where agents seized materials believed to be connected to the alleged operation.

Officials have not disclosed full details of the investigation, citing its ongoing status. However, the FBI confirmed that court-authorised actions were conducted across northern Indiana and additional states. 

Authorities also stated there is no immediate threat to public safety linked to the case.

The indictment arrives at a notable moment for Indiana's gambling landscape. The state recently signed HB 1052 into law, targeting sweepstakes-style online gaming, while the Social Gaming Leadership Alliance continues to push for a regulated framework for social plus games as an alternative to outright prohibition – suggesting Indiana's broader approach to gambling regulation remains very much in flux.