Ring leaders named
The seventeen men arrested in Rhode Island on online gambling and other serious charges involving two internet gambling rings have been named by the authorities as:
* 45-year-old Thomas Pilderian and 39 year old Mark Battista, who are alleged to be the ring leaders of one operation, and face charges of illegal bookmaking, organised criminal gambling, and conspiracy
* James Petrella, 31 and Timothy Moretti, 46, said to be controlling the second illegal enterprise are facing charges of bookmaking, organised criminal gambling and conspiracy. Moretti is additionally charged with violation of probation for prior convictions of possession with intent to deliver cocaine and possession of 1 ounce to 1 kilogram of cocaine.
Local media reports claim that Moretti has known mob ties, and 16 years ago was linked to an illegal gambling ring that was led by known mobster Anthony "The Saint" St. Laurent.
Most of the other defendants face charges of organised criminal gambling and conspiracy:
* Sean Furney (24), a baseball player currently playing for Kansas City's independent minor league baseball team;
* Christopher Costantino (24), another baseball player who was drafted by the Red Sox in 2009;
* Jonny Lubo (44),
* Mark V. Marinaro, (43)
* Jason M. Pilderian (39) brother of ringleader Thomas Pilderian;
* Joseph R. Brunelle (38),
* Eric D. Glaude (40);
* Dustin R. Sears (40);
* David J. Disano (42);
* Joseph A. Capelli (38);
* John Depietro (41) is additionally accused of possession with intent to deliver 1 to 5 kilos of marijuana; possession of 1 to 5 kilos of marijuana, and possession of Adderall with intent to deliver;
* Lewis Silveira (50);
* Brian K. Cipolla (48).
A state police spokesman told local media that the 8-month investigation is still ongoing, and that more information would be released Wednesday.
The defendants are due back in court around mid-June.
Online Casino News Courtesy of Infopowa
