New York man admits role in gambling ring that operated in several states, including NJ

New York man admits role in sports betting ring

TRENTON, N.J. — A New York man has admitted he helped run an illegal offshore sports betting ring that operated in several states, including New Jersey.

Joseph W. LaForte made the admission Wednesday in U.S. District Court in Trenton.

The 39-year-old Staten Island man pleaded guilty to a one-count information charging him with conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business. LaForte — who is currently serving a prison term in New York on unrelated charges — faces up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine when he’s sentenced April 6.

LaForte admitted that from 2005 through early 2006, he and others directed bettors to place wagers through an Internet gambling site located outside the United States and shared in the profits from the business.