A major illegal gambling operation in New Jersey involving a Democratic councilman and alleged members of one of New York's most notorious crime families has been uncovered by state authorities.

According to The Daily Caller, Democratic Prospect Park Councilman Anand Shah, 42, has been charged with multiple crimes, including racketeering and money laundering, in connection with illegal gambling operations.

Authorities allege that Shah was involved in running underground poker games and a sportsbook tied to suspected members of the Lucchese crime family. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison.

New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin announced the arrests of 39 individuals following a two-year investigation into illegal gambling activities across multiple localities.

The operation, which generated approximately $3 million in illicit proceeds, involved four poker clubs hidden behind legitimate restaurants in Totowa, Garfield, and Woodland Park.

Major Players in Multi-Million Dollar Gambling Ring

Suspected Lucchese crime family members George Zappola, Joseph "Big Joe" Perna, John Perna, and Wayne Cross were identified as key figures in the gambling operation.

The investigation revealed an intricate network of poker clubs and online sportsbook activities managed by dozens of individuals working in coordination with the crime family.

Shah, serving his third term as councilman at the time of his arrest, allegedly managed both illegal poker games and an online sportsbook in association with the organized crime group.

The operation extended beyond gambling, with some defendants facing additional charges for theft from local retailers.

New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice Director Theresa Hilton stated:

In the complaint we're announcing today, we allege that members and associates of the Lucchese Crime Family operated illegal card games and sports betting books in northern New Jersey. This can lead to other criminal activity, such as money laundering and theft. Two of the defendants are charged with stealing from local retailers in addition to their roles in the gambling operation. These are not so-called 'victimless' crimes, and we take seriously our responsibility to root out these illegal enterprises.

Extensive Law Enforcement Operation Across New Jersey

The investigation culminated in coordinated searches on April 9, 2025, targeting multiple locations, including poker clubs concealed behind functioning restaurants, a Paterson business storing gambling machines, and seven residences of suspected gambling operation managers.

Attorney General Platkin expressed concern about the impact of the councilman's arrest on public trust, acknowledging the already strained relationship between New Jersey residents and their elected officials.

During the press conference, he emphasized the state's commitment to rooting out corruption regardless of political affiliation.

Law enforcement officials discovered sophisticated methods used to conceal the illegal gambling operations, including backroom poker games hidden within legitimate businesses. The investigation exposed a complex network of individuals who managed bettors through an illegal online sportsbook platform.

Case Summary and Next Steps

Prospect Park Councilman Anand Shah stands accused of operating a multi-million dollar illegal gambling enterprise in partnership with alleged members of the Lucchese crime family.

The operation, which included poker games hidden in restaurants and an online sportsbook, generated approximately $3 million in illegal proceeds.

State authorities have charged a total of 39 individuals following a comprehensive two-year investigation across multiple New Jersey municipalities.

The case highlights ongoing concerns about the intersection of organized crime, political corruption, and illegal gambling in the state, with potential prison sentences of up to 20 years for those convicted of the most serious charges.