Illegal Gambling Ring and Extortion Case Develops in Northwest Indiana

Andrew Nguyen, previously identified as a minor participant in an illegal gambling ring in Northwest Indiana, is seeking to resume his career as a video poker player. His lawyer recently revealed in court that he was also an extortion victim in the same case. A judge initially barred Nguyen and 21 other defendants from gambling upon their release.

The indictment against Nguyen and others was announced by U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Adam Mildred, during a press conference at the U.S. District Courthouse in Hammond, Indiana. The federal grand jury returned a 28-count indictment linked to an alleged illegal gambling operation run out of two local restaurants, Gino’s Steakhouse and Paragon. Charges include conspiracy, money laundering, and extortionate debt collection methods.

The prosecution presented an intricate web of bookies, bettors, and alleged enforcers. The indictment, spanning 87 pages, outlines illegal activities from January 2021 to April 2026.

James “Jimmy the Greek” Gerodemos and Dean “Dean Gem” Gialamas are named as leaders of the operation. Separate arraignments took place for all defendants, who have pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Court documents show that Nguyen’s involvement was minimal. His lawyer noted Nguyen sent a text to Gerodemos in February 2024, relating to prior bets. Nguyen faced extortion from Gerodemos, who threatened to recover Nguyen’s debt of $7,500 by any means necessary.

A new RICO indictment may be possible, as federal prosecutors intensified efforts, seeking Gialamas back in custody. Arrested in Puerto Rico, Gialamas was released but is now facing allegations of recruiting and financing extortion. Prosecutors claim he holds undeclared assets exceeding $8 million, posing a flight risk.

Court filings detail incidents with Victim 1 and Collector 1, connected to Bettor E, a man who disappeared after losing $488,000. Gialamas allegedly collaborated with someone in prison for wire fraud to locate these individuals and collect debts. Victim 1 reported intimidation tactics involving alleged cartel members demanding payments.

Authorities gathered crucial evidence from various sources, including Victim 1’s statements, intercepted communications, and bank data. Conversations revealed Gialamas’ frustration, offering collectors a cut if they resorted to violence for debt recovery.

Attorneys defending other involved parties continue to navigate their cases, with upcoming bond hearings scheduled for co-defendants. Nguyen’s case remains under review as his legal team argues his limited involvement and victimhood status.