Overview

• Anand Shah, a councilman from Prospect Park, New Jersey, is accused of managing illegal poker games and an online sportsbook tied to the Lucchese crime family.
• The two-year investigation uncovered $3 million in illicit proceeds, concealed through shell corporations and legitimate businesses.
• Authorities raided 12 locations on April 9, 2025, including poker clubs, restaurants, and homes used for illegal gambling operations.
• High-ranking Lucchese members, including George Zappola, Joseph 'Big Joe' Perna, John Perna, and Wayne Cross, are among the 39 individuals charged.
• Shah, who faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted, is not accused of using his public office to facilitate the crimes.