Indictment and Initial Revelations

Andrew Nguyen, identified as a minor player in an alleged illegal gambling ring in Northwest Indiana, faces restrictions on gambling due to his indictment. Alongside 21 others, he is forbidden from gambling as part of his release conditions. Nguyen’s lawyer argues for his client’s permission to resume professional video poker, revealing Nguyen also suffered extortion within the same case.

U.S. Attorney Adam Mildred disclosed a federal grand jury’s 28-count indictment against 22 individuals on April 30, 2026. The charges include conspiracy and money laundering related to illegal gambling tied to two Northwest Indiana restaurants.

The indictment unveils a network of bookies, bettors, and ineffective enforcers, detailing alleged activities from January 2021 to April 2026.

Key Figures and Activities

James “Jimmy the Greek” Gerodemos and Dean “Dean Gem” Gialamas allegedly led the gambling ring operating from Gino’s Steakhouse and Paragon across Indiana. All defendants plead not guilty during their May 14 arraignment.

Nguyen’s lawyer, Vadim Glozman, highlights his client’s limited involvement, noting a single text sent by Nguyen referencing past bets. However, extortion attempts surfaced when Nguyen fell behind on debts amounting to approximately $7,500.

Pressure to recover debts extended to Victim 1 and Victim 3, with threats directed at Nguyen, identified as Victim 3.

Federal Actions and Legal Proceedings

Prosecutors anticipate a RICO indictment and seek to return co-defendant Dean Gialamas to custody, labeling him a flight risk with excessive unexplained assets. Gialamas was arrested post-vacation in Puerto Rico but later released, prompting further legal action.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip Benson’s filing suggests Gialamas engaged in recruitment and financing extortion, paralleling Gerodemos’s conduct. Gialamas’ legal response to these allegations remains pending. Co-defendants Gialamas and Alexander Gagianas face a bond hearing scheduled for June 3.

Case Developments and Evidence Gathering

Complicated attempts to recover gambling losses spotlight incidents involving Victim 1. Authorities claim Gialamas held Victim 1 partly accountable for Bettor E’s disappearance after losing significant amounts. Tactics involved deceptive claims about debts purportedly backed by a cartel.

Victim 1, a known associate of Gialamas for decades, reported threatening visits from individuals seeking funds related to outstanding debts.

Disclosures around inside connections within federal law enforcement add complexity, as does Victim 1’s testimony indicating extortion threats extending beyond physical encounters to communication.

Surveillance includes wiretaps and cloud data collections, supporting evidence from phone records and financial accounts.

Frustrations expressed by Gialamas in recovering debts hint at willingness to resort to violence.

Further Legal Maneuvers

Co-defendant Basam Ibrahim seeks release, opposed by the government, amid ongoing judicial proceedings.