Yevgeni Gershman, 50, of Woodland Hills, has pleaded guilty to multiple federal charges stemming from an illegal high-stakes poker operation. Gershman, reportedly associated with Israeli organized crime, admitted guilt to four counts including conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business, immigration fraud, money laundering, and being a prohibited person in possession of firearms.

Illegal Gambling Operation at Arenas' Mansion

The case centers around poker games hosted at a luxury Encino mansion owned by former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas. Court documents indicate Gershman played a key role in orchestrating these games, generating revenue by taking a percentage of each pot – known as a “rake.”

The illegal gambling activities allegedly took place between September 2021 and July 2022. The Encino mansion was regularly rented out to facilitate these high-stakes poker events.

Details of the Plea Agreement

Gershman faces a potential sentence of 24 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release and a $50,000 fine. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 6. The U.S. Attorney's office in Los Angeles confirmed these details.

Complex Network of Illegal Activities

Prosecutors outlined Gershman as a central figure, managing various aspects of the poker games. He allegedly worked with co-conspirators Evgeni Tourevski, Allan Austria, and Yarin Cohen to recruit players, organize events, and staff the games with dealers, chefs, valets, and armed security.

The operation extended beyond the poker games themselves. Gershman allegedly hired women to provide services to players, including drinks, massages, and “companionship,” taking a cut of their earnings.

Authorities also allege Gershman sent coded text messages to women inviting them to work at the illegal poker games, including an instance where he purportedly inquired about prostitution.

Co-Defendants and Trial Date

The remaining co-defendants, including Arenas, have pleaded not guilty and are scheduled to stand trial on May 5.

Immigration Fraud and Potential Deportation

In addition to gambling charges, Gershman faces allegations of immigration fraud. He was accused of conspiring with Valentina Cojocari in a sham marriage to obtain a green card.

Having entered the U.S. on a tourist visa in 2021, deportation to Israel is “practically inevitable” and a permanent ban from re-entry is possible, according to the plea agreement.

Multi-Agency Investigation

The investigation involved Homeland Security Investigations, the Los Angeles Police Department’s Transnational Organized Crime Section, and IRS Criminal Investigation. This collaborative effort reflects the complexity of the alleged crimes, encompassing organized crime, financial fraud, and immigration violations.

Gershman’s past criminal history, including convictions for conspiracy to commit murder and narcotics trafficking in Israel, further complicates the situation.