Gambling Addict NFL Exec Charged with Embezzling $22 Million

Amit Patel, a former Jacksonville Jaguars executive, is facing federal fraud charges for allegedly stealing over $22 million from the NFL team.

Patel, who served as the team's manager of financial planning and analysis, is accused of using the team's virtual credit card to fund a lavish lifestyle and a severe gambling addiction.

The high-stakes scheme reportedly began in September 2019 and continued until February of this year when Patel was fired from his position following an NFL investigation.

He allegedly manipulated the Jaguars' virtual credit card program to steal the funds, which he used for a variety of flashy personal expenses. These included daily fantasy sports wagers, cryptocurrency purchases, and even the purchase of a luxury condo.

The extravagant spending didn't stop there. He is also accused of using the stolen funds for private jet travel, luxury hotel suite accommodation, a country club membership, and high-end watches, including a $95,000 Patek Philippe Nautilus.

He also purchased a new Tesla Model 3 sedan, a Nissan pickup truck, sports memorabilia, tickets to sporting events, and some NFTs. And just to show just how much he was having a laugh about it all, he also hired a criminal defence lawyer to get him off. Allegedly, of course.

Despite the severity of the charges, Patel's lawyer, Alex King, has stated that his client plans to plead guilty. He has also confirmed that Patel suffers from a serious gambling addiction, which was the primary motive for the embezzlement.

According to King, approximately 99% of the misappropriated funds were related to gambling losses, particularly on daily fantasy sports platforms FanDuel and DraftKings.

He further stated that Patel's losses were most significant in the final months leading up to the NFL's investigation. In an attempt to address his addiction, Patel checked himself into extensive, inpatient rehabilitation in the spring of this year.

King acknowledged that his client's gambling addiction does not excuse his actions, emphasising that Patel takes full responsibility for his deeds.

"Mr. Patel is deeply remorseful and apologises for his conduct. He loved working for the Jacksonville Jaguars and regrets his actions which have resulted in him both losing his dream job and damaging the organisation. Mr. Patel remains in treatment and intends to seek ongoing treatment for the foreseeable future."

If convicted, Patel could face up to 20 years in prison. He waived his right to an indictment hearing and will face his plea hearing on December 14 in Jacksonville.