Anand Shah, a municipal councillor in Prospect Park, New Jersey, has been charged with racketeering, illegal gambling, and money laundering in connection with a $3 million criminal enterprise allegedly tied to the notorious Lucchese crime family. Shah, 42, is currently serving his second term on the borough council with responsibilities for finance and economic development.
He was among 39 individuals named in a sweeping indictment announced by New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin. The two-year investigation exposed an underground gambling network involving secret poker clubs, offshore sportsbooks, and sophisticated laundering operations stretching across North Jersey.
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Authorities accuse Shah of managing illegal poker games and operating a digital sportsbook, working alongside top-level Lucchese members. Raids on April 9 uncovered gambling hubs hidden behind restaurants and businesses, alongside residences of key suspects.
Another Indian-origin individual, Samir Nadkarni of Florida, was also charged for his alleged role as a poker host and betting agent. Investigators say the enterprise used shell companies to launder money while intimidation was employed to collect debts and enforce control.
Attorney General Platkin condemned the operation, warning against glamorising mafia activity and noting the damage such criminal networks inflict on communities. The case continues to unfold, with more charges likely. Shah has yet to enter a plea, and his legal team has not commented.
