Federal prosecutors have expanded a major illegal gambling investigation that now links a well-known restaurant owner and celebrity chef to a multi-state sports betting and extortion network operating in the Midwest.
According to court documents unsealed in April, 22 people were charged in connection with what authorities describe as a large underground gambling operation that allegedly used restaurants in Indiana as meeting hubs and fronts for illegal activity.
Investigators say the organization ran sports betting operations across several states while also engaging in loan sharking and intimidation tactics. Two restaurants, Gino’s Steakhouse in Merrillville and Paragon in Hobart, were identified in the indictment as central locations tied to the scheme.
Among those named is restaurateur Filippo “Gigi” Rovito, owner of the Capri restaurant in Burr Ridge, Illinois. Federal authorities allege Rovito played a role in the broader illegal gambling business and helped facilitate parts of the operation. NBC Chicago reported that he was taken into custody following a federal grand jury indictment in Hammond, Indiana.
Prosecutors claim the network generated significant profits through illicit sports wagering while using threats and pressure to collect debts. The investigation reportedly stretches beyond Indiana and involves multiple jurisdictions.
Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, continue to examine financial records, communications, and alleged ties between members of the group. Authorities have not disclosed how much money the operation generated, but officials described it as a sophisticated enterprise with organized structures and long-term activity.
Several defendants face charges connected to illegal gambling, racketeering, and extortion. Court proceedings are expected to continue over the coming months as prosecutors push forward with the case.