Home / Crime and Justice / Ex-DraftKings Trader Faces Felony Charges in Betting Scheme
Ex-DraftKings Trader Faces Felony Charges in Betting Scheme
7 Jul
Summary
- Former DraftKings employee arrested for felony fraud and conspiracy charges.
- Scheme involved a Fresno State player manipulating performance in a game.
- Investigation uncovered suspicious betting activity and money transfers.
Samuel Silverman, a former DraftKings sports trader, was arrested in Las Vegas on May 5, 2026, facing felony charges for fraud and conspiracy to cheat at gambling. Law enforcement records indicate the alleged scheme revolved around manipulating the performance of Fresno State player Mykell Robinson during a January 7, 2025 game against Colorado State.
Investigators identified Silverman, former teammate Steven Vasquez, and another DraftKings colleague, Matthew J. Martin, as involved. The Nevada Gaming Control Board's investigation, supported by NCAA findings, concluded there was a clear conspiracy to profit from altered play. Robinson and Vasquez were ruled permanently ineligible by the NCAA for their alleged roles.
Suspicious parlay bets totaling $2,200 on Robinson's under-performance were flagged by BetMGM, with Martin allegedly placing these bets. These bets resulted in a net win of $15,950. Subsequent financial records show money being distributed among Martin, Silverman, Robinson, and Vasquez, totaling the winnings.
DraftKings confirmed Silverman and Martin are no longer employed by the company, stating the alleged activity did not occur on their platform and they condemned the conduct. The investigation is ongoing, with several suspects still outstanding.
