Andrew Nguyen, one among 22 defendants in a large illegal gambling operation case in Northwest Indiana, aims to resume his career as a video poker player. His lawyer recently disclosed that Nguyen was an extortion victim in the same case. As a release condition, Nguyen and others are prohibited from gambling. The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana, Adam Mildred, announced a 28-count indictment connected to this alleged operation.
The indictment highlights a network of bookies and bettors involved in dubious activities. James “Jimmy the Greek” Gerodemos, 62, and Dean “Dean Gem” Gialamas, 61, are named as leaders of the organization accused of running illegal gambling at Gino’s Steakhouse in Merrillville and Paragon in Hobart. All defendants pleaded not guilty during their arraignment.
“He introduced individuals seeking to place bets. That is the entirety of his alleged involvement.”
Nguyen’s lawyer argued that his client’s involvement was minimal, citing a single text to Gerodemos in 2024. When Nguyen fell behind on his debts, valued at $7,500, Gerodemos allegedly threatened action to recover the amount.
The government may potentially issue a superseding RICO indictment. They are also pressing to have Gialamas returned to custody. He was earlier arrested on vacation in Puerto Rico. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip Benson highlighted that Gialamas could pose a flight risk, referencing over $8 million in unexplained assets.
Gialamas and Associate Alexander Gagianas have a bond hearing set for June 3. Gialamas is implicated in pressuring Victim 1 and Collector 1 regarding a debt related to Bettor E, who vanished after losing $488,000. Victim 1 reported intimidation from individuals claiming cartel involvement, prompting contact with law enforcement. Despite denials, Gialamas continues to face scrutiny.
Authorities recovered significant evidence from Gialamas’ iCloud. Information was gathered from interviews, undercover recordings, and wiretaps. In a revealing wiretap from 2023, Gialamas expressed frustration, urging collectors to retrieve debts by any necessary means.
Additionally, attorney Kerry Connor has sought a hearing for Basam Ibrahim, another defendant, to secure his release. The government opposes this request.