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NEW YORK SEQUEL

Alleged money-man behind billion dollar sportsbetting ring out on bail


The big story last week was probably the largest gambling bust ever made by New York police, which involved the arrest of over 20 people including a well known poker pro and a one time sports talent scout, and the confiscation of some $500 million of property and equipment.

In a sequel this week, the suspected Las Vegas moneyman for the multibillion-dollar gambling ring was identified as posting a million dollar bail after being extradited from Las Vegas.

Monte Weiner, 56, was extradited from Sin City and stood briefly before Queens Supreme Court Justice Stephen Knopf yesterday (Thursday). He was arraigned on enterprise corruption, promoting gambling, money laundering and other charges.

Last week, Queens District Attorney Richard Brown and Police Commissioner Ray Kelly announced a 33-count indictment against 27 individuals and three corporations all connected with the global gambling ring.

Using the Web site Playwithal.com and toll-free numbers, more than $3.3 billion in wagers on football, baseball, hockey, horse racing, golf and other sports were collected over a 28-month period.

Weiner's 27-year-old son Eric was also arrested last week and faces the same charges. He, too, posted $1 million bail. Both are facing up to 25 years in prison.