Michigan Man Charged with 8 Felonies for Betting Violations

• Jeffrey Saco was arrested on eight felony counts for sports betting violations on the Caesars Sportsbook app in Michigan.
• With a hearing set in two weeks, this story is only just starting to unfold.

DETROIT – A Southfield, Michigan man is facing eight felony charges related to sports betting violations, according to the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB). The charges follow a joint investigation by the MGCB and Michigan Department of Attorney General, initiated after Caesars Entertainment alerted authorities about suspected fraud involving a mobile betting account.

Jeffrey Saco, 38, allegedly exploited Michigan sportsbooks, specifically a vulnerability in Caesars’ system in April 2023, In 16 days, he made over $2 million in fictitious sportsbook deposits and placed nearly 10,000 bets totaling more than $88 million.

He reportedly transferred $521,000 into his personal account before halting activity.

MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams emphasized the seriousness of enforcing gambling laws and praised the collaboration with the Attorney General’s Office and Caesars Entertainment. Williams also noted Saco’s right to due process.

Saco faces the following charges:

• Larceny by Conversion: 1 count. Under Michigan law (MCL 750.362), this charge applies when money or property is unlawfully converted. Penalties include up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $15,000 or three times the value of the stolen property.
• Felony Gambling Violations: 3 counts. Each charge is punishable by up to 10 years in prison or a $100,000 fine.
• Using a Computer to Commit a Crime: 4 counts. Each count carries a potential sentence of 10 to 20 years in prison and a fine of $10,000.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel praised the legal sports betting partnership with the MGCB in prosecuting illegal activities.

Saco was arrested by Lathrup Village Police two weeks ago and was arraigned a day later in Traverse City, released on a $500,000 bond. A probable cause conference took place on Friday with a preliminary hearing set for Oct. 4.

News tags: Caesars | Dana Nessel | Jeffrey Saco | Michigan | Michigan Gaming Control Board