In a shocking turn of events, a Brooklyn judge has set bail at a whopping $750,000 for a notorious “poker shark” allegedly involved in a $1 million gambling scheme with banned NBA player Jontay Porter. The accused, identified as 38-year-old Johnathan Davis, has been charged with multiple counts of illegal gambling and money laundering in connection with the high-stakes poker games that took place in upscale Brooklyn apartments.
According to prosecutors, Davis, known in underground gambling circles as the “poker shark,” was a key player in orchestrating the illicit gambling ring that involved several celebrities and athletes, including Jontay Porter, who was banned from the NBA in 2019 for violating the league’s anti-gambling policy. The scheme reportedly involved illegal poker games with buy-ins of up to $100,000 and winnings in excess of $1 million.
During a bail hearing at Brooklyn Supreme Court, Judge Marla Rodriguez set Davis’ bail at $750,000, citing the seriousness of the charges and the potential risk to public safety. The prosecution argued that Davis posed a flight risk due to his extensive criminal history and connections to organized crime figures. In addition to the substantial bail amount, Davis was ordered to surrender his passport and wear an electronic monitoring device if released.
Defense attorney Michael Goldberg argued for a lower bail amount, stating that Davis has strong ties to the community and has no intention of fleeing. Goldberg also pointed out that his client has no prior convictions for violent crimes and has always complied with court orders in the past. Despite his arguments, Judge Rodriguez stood firm on the $750,000 bail, stating that the gravity of the charges warranted the high amount.
The case has sparked widespread interest and controversy in the Brooklyn legal community, with many questioning the role of high-stakes gambling in professional sports and the influence of illicit gambling rings on athletes and celebrities. Jontay Porter, who was not present at the bail hearing, has declined to comment on the case.
As the investigation into the $1 million gambling scheme continues, all eyes will be on Johnathan Davis as he navigates the legal process and awaits trial. With the hefty bail amount set by Judge Rodriguez, it remains to be seen whether Davis will be able to secure his release and fight the charges against him. The story of the Brooklyn “poker shark” and his alleged involvement in the gambling scheme with Jontay Porter is far from over, as the legal battle unfolds in the coming months.