Israeli poker star accused of money laundering in Los Angeles

Gal Yifrach, winner of the World Series of Poker bracelet, has been indicted along with other Israelis for operating illegal gambling and money laundering in Los Angeles. According to the indictment, they deposited small amounts to avoid reporting requirements. Maximum penalty: 25 years in prison.

Gal Yifrach (35), winner of the 2018 World Series of Poker bracelet, was arrested and charged in Los Angeles with money laundering and operating illegal virtual gambling. The indictment also names Israelis Nick Shkolnik (39), Shalom Yifrach (32), and Shneur Zalman Getzel Rosenfeld (33). According to the California prosecutor's office, they ran illegal gambling businesses in the Sacramento area, operated slot machines, and laundered proceeds by exchanging cash for chips or checks at the Bell Gardens casino. They deposited cash in multiple separate deposits at different banks, each under $10,000, to avoid reporting requirements. Gal Yifrach used some of the funds to invest in real estate in Los Angeles. If convicted, Gal Yifrach and Shkolnik face up to 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for operating illegal gambling; Gal Yifrach, Shalom Yifrach, and Rosenfeld face up to 20 years in prison and a $500,000 fine for money laundering. The indictment seeks forfeiture of assets worth over $500,000 and three real estate properties in Los Angeles.