What charges is Yasiel Puig facing in his federal trial?

Yasiel Puig is facing charges of obstruction of justice and making false statements to federal investigators.

Did Yasiel Puig admit to gambling?

Prosecutors allege Puig placed 899 bets on sporting events and accumulated significant losses.

Why did Yasiel Puig withdraw from his plea deal?

Puig withdrew from his plea deal because he stated he wanted to clear his name and did not believe he committed a crime.

Home / Crime and Justice / Ex-MLB Star Puig Denies Lying to Feds

Ex-MLB Star Puig Denies Lying to Feds

21 Jan

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Summary

Yasiel Puig is on trial for obstruction and lying to investigators.
Prosecutors allege he made 899 illegal sports bets.
Puig previously agreed to a plea deal but later withdrew.

A federal trial began on Tuesday in Los Angeles for former major league player Yasiel Puig. The 35-year-old faces charges including obstruction of justice and making false statements to federal investigators regarding his alleged involvement in an illegal sports betting ring.

Prosecutors contend that Puig placed 899 wagers on non-baseball sporting events from May to September 2019. They assert he accrued substantial losses, reportedly sending $200,000 to an associate to cover a portion of his debt.

Federal investigators questioned Puig in 2022 about his role in the gambling operation. They allege he provided false information on multiple occasions. Puig had previously reached a plea agreement in November 2022, agreeing to plead guilty to one count of lying to federal investigators.