Major Racketeering Charges Launched Against Organized Crime Sports Betting Network

Major Racketeering Charges Launched Against Organized Crime Sports Betting Network

The New Jersey State Police, in collaboration with the Division of Criminal Justice, have announced sweeping charges targeting a multimillion-dollar sports betting operation linked to organized crime. Fourteen individuals, including family members of alleged crime syndicate members, face a variety of serious charges.

At the center of this alleged scheme is Joseph M. “Little Joe” Perna, 55, from Fairfield, New Jersey, said to be the head of this illicit network and reportedly affiliated with the notorious Lucchese crime family. A recent news release from Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin detailed the significant impact of this illegal operation.

Perna, alongside his sons, stepson, nephews, and others, faces charges related to racketeering, conspiracy, money laundering, and gambling offenses. Notably, both his current wife and ex-wife face independent charges in connection with the operation.

Attorney General Platkin elaborated on the Nature of organized crime in modern society, stating, “We may all think that the portrayal of organized crime we remember from movies and television shows and books no longer exists, but we are announcing charges today that allege it still does.” He also highlighted the persistent problem of illegal gambling, asserting that despite the increased prevalence of legal betting, illegal activities related to gambling continue to thrive.

Authorities Targeting an Evolving Threat

Director of the Division of Criminal Justice, Theresa L. Hilton, affirmed the commitment to addressing organized crime in New Jersey. She emphasized that these recent allegations point to the sophistication with which members of the Lucchese crime family allegedly operated their sports betting enterprise. Hilton stated, “We are committed to rooting out these illegal operations and protecting the public from becoming their victims.”

In January 2024, members of the State Police Port Security Section initiated investigations into suspicious gambling activities across Essex and Bergen counties, leading to the current charges.

A Network of Criminal Activities

The illegal betting scheme reportedly lured individuals into placing bets while funneling the proceeds to sustain the enterprise and enrich its members. Alarmingly, some participants, including student-athletes, allegedly facilitated sportsbooks.

Investigation records indicate that between 2022 and 2024, the gambling operation conducted an estimated $2 million in suspected betting transactions. The network reportedly included an expansive web of bookmakers who operated under the direction of Perna, deemed a soldier in the Lucchese crime family.

The Attorney General’s office detailed the internal structure of the operation, explaining that Perna operated as the ‘financier’ of the illegal scheme. His son, Joseph R. Perna, 25, from Oakland, New Jersey, managed daily operations, overseeing dozens of subordinate agents. This group of young affiliates allegedly included his brother Anthony, 23, and stepbrother Frank Zito, 23, both of whom played crucial roles in the network’s activities.

In addition to these family members, co-defendants from various locations, including North Kingstown, Rhode Island, and Gainesville, Florida, were charged. Others associated with the scheme hailed from multiple northern New Jersey municipalities.

Involvement of Family Members

The Perna family’s involvement does not end with Joseph M. Perna. His current wife, Kim Zito, reportedly received multiple payments in late 2023 linked to known conspirators while helping facilitate the illegal activities. Meanwhile, his ex-wife, Rosanna Magno, faced charges for allegedly attempting to conceal gambling ledgers from law enforcement during an investigatory encounter in April 2025.

Legal Repercussions and Public Safety

The legal ramifications of these charges are severe. First-degree offenses carry prison sentences ranging from 10 to 20 years, along with significant fines of up to $200,000. In addition, those charged under first-degree money laundering statutes could face fines reaching $500,000. Lesser charges still involve potential prison time, thus presenting a substantial threat of long-term consequences for those involved.

Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, superintendent of the New Jersey State Police, expressed his commitment to combating organized crime, emphasizing the impact of these racketeering operations. He stated, “The takedown of this organized illegal sports gambling ring underscores our unwavering commitment to dismantling criminal networks that profit from corruption and greed. These racketeering operations exploit vulnerable individuals and communities, and today’s charges send a clear message – we will continue to protect victims and pursue justice wherever organized crime takes root.”

Addressing the Issue Ahead

This extensive operation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in combating organized crime and illegal gambling. As investigations continue, the focus remains on preventing such enterprises from exploiting potential victims within the community. Through collaboration and determination, authorities aim to dismantle these criminal networks and restore public trust.

The ramifications of this case could reverberate throughout New Jersey, reinforcing the state’s dedication to pursuing justice and protecting its citizens from the pervasive impact of organized crime.