Casino Crime Round Up: Ex-Pro Basketball Player Allegedly Stole Cash, Spent on Gambling

Posted on: May 8, 2024, 04:36h.

Last updated on: May 8, 2024, 04:36h.

Ed Silverstein @casinoorgedsilv Read More

Expertise: Legal, Tribal Gaming.

Roderick Wilmont, a former professional basketball player, allegedly stole funds from a Florida sports academy, and used it for gambling and personal expenses, according to recent news reports.

Wilmont allegedly rerouted thousands of dollars per month meant for student housing costs at Mont Sports Academy in Orlando. The money was also spent by Wilmont on vacations and OnlyFans subscriptions, according to the Tampa Bay Times.

Wilmont, 40, who coached at the academy, was charged with two counts of scheme to defraud and defrauding an innkeeper, the report said.

The alleged wrongdoing came to light last December and was reported to the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office.

The money was supposed to pay for rental properties, according to the West Orlando News. Wilmont was late in making payments and owed a firm some $19K, authorities said.

The Mont Sports Academy prepares students for basketball play in college.

“We understand that success in sports goes beyond the game itself,” the academy said in an online statement.

It requires discipline, resilience, and a strong foundation in both academics and personal growth. Our program aims to instill these values in our student-athletes, fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and lifelong learning.”

While in college, Wilmont played for Indiana University. He also had “stints on the Milwaukee Bucks and New York Knicks’ rosters and played nine years of professional basketball in the European League and NBA Developmental League,” according to the academy’s website.

Gambling Machines Seized

Several gambling machines, a loaded gun, and over $3K were seized by San Francisco police during an illegal gaming raid last week. Police also found suspected cocaine and ecstasy, as well as drug paraphernalia and supplies.

Trang Thuy Thanh Tran, 45, of Oakland, Calif., was arrested at the Ellis Street operation following Thursday’s court-approved search, police said.

Tran was charged with maintaining a place to sell illegal narcotics, conspiracy to commit a crime, possession of illegal gambling machines, permitting the use of illegal gambling machines, and maintaining a location for illegal gambling in exchange for money.

Tran was booked at the San Francisco County Jail. It appears she was released from custody. Her case was turned over to local prosecutors.

Other suspects were apprehended by police during the raid. Those suspects also could face charges.