Canada Investigates Jontay Porter over NBA Betting Scandal

In April, the Toronto Raptors center, Jontay Porter, was banned by the NBA for life after an investigation uncovered breaches of the Association’s rules on gambling. The enforced penalty marked the toughest sanction the league can impose and may effectively end the player’s professional basketball career.

Amid the probe that uncovered Porter was involved in suspicious betting activities for two Raptors games, an investigation into the matter was launched in Canada. As reported by ESPN, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) considered that a criminal investigation is warranted in light of the probe that tied the former Raptors player to the betting activities.

Craig Abrams, OPP’s spokesperson revealed that the agency is aware of the ongoing probe led by federal authorities in the United States. He added that the OPP will get in touch with law enforcement regarding its own criminal investigation.

Currently, Porter doesn’t face charges in relation to the betting scandal. However, four individuals, suspected of being involved in the bets on Porter were slapped with wire fraud charges. The fourth and final suspect in the NBA gambling scandal turned himself in earlier this month.

Jeff Jensen, Porter’s attorney released a statement last week, deeming his client as a “good young man with strong faith that will get him through this.” The attorney claimed that Porter’s actions were the result of a gambling addiction. Jensen explained that the former Raptors player continues to cooperate with law enforcement to a full extent while going through treatment for gambling addiction.

“He was in over his head due to a gambling addiction. He is undergoing treatment and has been fully cooperative with law enforcement.“

Jeff Jensen, attorney of Jontay Porter

Frozen Payouts on Porter’s Underperformance

The games that raised suspicion and ultimately resulted in the permanent ban against Porter dated back to January and March. On January 26, the Raptors played against the Los Angeles Clippers, while on March 20, they faced the Sacramento Kings.

Both games were flagged for suspicious betting activities and according to US federal prosecutors, the group of individuals who face wire fraud charges wagered on Porter to underperform. The Raptors lost the two games while during each game, Porter left early by claiming that he was injured.

The alleged manipulation actions would have resulted in a payday that was north of $1 million for the criminal group. Yet, they weren’t able to enjoy that sum considering that both FanDuel and DraftKings effectively stopped the payouts of the winnings after flagging the games for suspicious betting activities.