In Warwick Rhode Island the police raided a business called the Cozy Grill along with another currently undisclosed location. During the raid, the police discovered a gambling ring and arrested 16 Rhode Island men. Included in the 16 men arrested were professional baseball players, known criminals, and other people from all walks of life. These men were arrested for charges that they managed an illegal online gambling ring.

A Gambling Ring In Warwick

The investigation preceding this raid was over eight months long and was led by the attorney general and the state police. While the name of the online community related to the gambling ring has not yet been released and the police have not released the location of the other site raided. At this time, the Police have also not released the reason that the Cozy Grill was raided in the first place.

While the investigation is ongoing, we do know more information about the people arrested in relation to the gambling ring. As we stated before two of the men arrested were professional baseball players Chris Constantino, and Sean W. Furney. Both these individuals are from Warwick, and it is not yet known if they were key members of the gambling ring. As far as how they are connected they were both members of the Rome Braves which is a minor league team affiliated with the Atlanta Braves in Rome, Georgia. At this time, both players have been released as they have promised to appear in front of the superior court in June. They will be charged with being involved with being involved in organized criminal gambling, conspiracy, and are being accused of conspiring with Timothy J. Moretti and James J. Petrella. Petrella has been identified as a key figure in the gambling ring and both Petrella and Moretti face bookmaking charges.

Moretti, who is from Cranston, has a long criminal history has charges dating back to the early 90s. According to local newspapers, he has been in and out of prison for the last 20 years.

We will be sure to update this story should any pressing information surface about the gambling ring. If you or a loved one has been arrested concerning gambling or a gambling ring contact RI Criminal Defense Lawyer Joshua Macktaz for a free consultation, we are available at any time at 401-861-1155.