LAS VEGAS – Authorities in Las Vegas have dismantled what they say was a multimillion‑dollar illegal sports betting network following a years‑long investigation involving state and federal agencies. A 57‑year‑old Las Vegas man, William West Roberts, faces multiple felony charges tied to unlicensed gambling and suspected financial crimes.
The probe, led by the Nevada Gaming Control Board and the FBI, began after a tip from Roberts’ former girlfriend, according to reporting by the Las Vegas Review‑Journal. Investigators used undercover officers and information from a confidential source to build the case.
Officials say Roberts facilitated sports wagers through an offshore platform believed to be based in Costa Rica. The operation allegedly processed millions of dollars in bets and funneled proceeds through legitimate‑appearing businesses, including a fitness center and a betting advisory service.
Regulators allege Roberts commingled illegal gambling proceeds with business income, making it difficult to determine the true source of funds. Banks and casinos flagged irregular transactions, and several institutions cut ties with him over concerns about suspicious activity.
Investigators estimate roughly $8 million in wagers were placed at licensed Nevada sportsbooks as part of a risk‑management strategy commonly used by illegal bookmakers. Between 2022 and 2026, Roberts was linked to hundreds of large cash transactions that exceeded federal reporting thresholds, further raising red flags.
Roberts is charged with operating an unlicensed gambling business, accepting illegal bets and attempting to conceal the origin of funds, among other counts. He has been released on bond and is scheduled to appear in court in mid‑May. No formal defense has been filed.
