Things are not looking up for Giuseppe “Little Joe” Manzi, a Rhode Island mobster who is one of the primary defendants in a federal case investigating a sprawling illegal gambling ring. While Manzi was previously released on a $15,000 bond in Indiana, his recent involvement in another suspected fraud case could land him behind bars.
Manzi Was Implicated in a Sprawling Illegal Betting Scheme
Manzi was one of the 22 individuals implicated during Operation Porterhouse Parlay, a federal investigation into a massive illegal gambling operation. According to investigators, the betting ring was suspected of more than just unlicensed wagering, as members stand accused of money laundering and using threats and intimidation to collect debts.
The operation was not just limited to Indiana. Suspects tied to the case were arrested in Chicago, New York, and Boston. Prosecutors allege that the gambling ring operated a nationwide digital platform while keeping its leadership in northwest Indiana. If proven guilty, the suspects can face significant prison time.
All 22 defendants pleaded “not guilty” in May. Manzi was granted pretrial leave under strict conditions, such as traveling restrictions limiting him to Indiana and Massachusetts and a ban on entering casinos or other gambling establishments. However, the man’s recent involvement in another suspected fraud case may have violated these conditions.
He Also Faces Separate Charges for Casino Fraud
In June, Manzi was arrested due to his alleged involvement in a gambling scheme that saw him win over $500,000 at Bally’s Casino and Resort in Lincoln. According to investigators, he and his five accomplices used multiple identities to wager at the casino, taking advantage of various offers and bonuses.
While the new case accuses Manzi of money laundering, cheating a casino, and conspiracy, he was ultimately released on $50,000 bail in Palmer District Court. However, this development could affect his pretrial release in the Rhode Island gambling ring lawsuit. Regardless, he is now involved in two high-profile lawsuits, with each possibly landing him years in prison.
According to a recent Fox 32 report, the judges will have to decide whether Manzi’s involvement in the casino case would have affected their decision to release him from custody while awaiting trial. His defense team remains firm, denying all accusations, and will likely plead with the court for him to remain free while he awaits trial