A former NFL team employee, who embezzled over $22 million, is taking a prominent sports betting operator to court, alleging that the company exploited his gambling addiction and disregarded its own responsible gaming protocols. In a federal lawsuit, the plaintiff, Amit Patel, claims that the sportsbook encouraged him to continue playing daily fantasy sports despite exhibiting clear signs of problem gambling.
According to court documents, Patel transferred approximately $20 million to the sportsbook, which in turn provided him with $1.1 million in credits, as well as luxury trips to high-profile sporting events. The lawsuit alleges that the sportsbook’s VIP host, Brett Krause, communicated with Patel excessively, often contacting him on days he wasn’t gambling to inquire about his absence. Krause allegedly acknowledged violating anti-money laundering protocols and instructed Patel to fabricate dialogue on his sportsbook phone to avoid detection.
Patel’s attorney, Matthew Litt, argues that the sportsbook “actively and intentionally targeted and preyed on” Patel, exacerbating his addiction with incentives and gifts. The lawsuit seeks $250 million in damages, citing the sportsbook’s alleged role in Patel’s downfall. The sportsbook has declined to comment, citing its policy on pending litigation.
Patel, 31, pleaded guilty to wire fraud and illegal monetary transactions, admitting to stealing from his former employer over 3½ years. He is currently serving a 6½-year sentence and has been diagnosed with a gambling disorder. His attorney hopes that the lawsuit will not only hold the sportsbook accountable but also prevent similar cases of exploitation in the future.
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