Major Inquiry into Alleged Internet Betting Scam
Police in the City of London have charged eleven individuals, including renowned jockey Kieren Fallon, in connection with an alleged internet betting scam. The inquiry, codenamed Operation Krypton, is believed to be the largest investigation of its kind ever conducted by the force. Detectives launched the investigation after Betfair, a leading online betting website, supplied them with records of irregular betting activity.
Key Takeaways:
- 28 people were arrested since September 2004 as part of the inquiry, with 11 charged with various offenses related to conspiracy to defraud and money laundering.
- The charges relate to allegations of fixing the outcome of over 80 horse races between December 1, 2002, and September 2, 2004.
- Former racing syndicate director Miles Rodgers, jockey Fergal Lynch, and trainer Alan Berry are among those charged with conspiracy to defraud.
- Eight others were released without charge, bringing the total number of people allowed to walk free to 17.
- The investigation is led by Detective Chief Superintendent Steve Wilmott, head of the City force's economic crime division.
- Betfair supplied the police with records of irregular betting activity, which led to the launch of Operation Krypton.
Statistics:
- 28 people were arrested since September 2004
- 11 people have been charged with various offenses
- Over 80 horse races are alleged to have been fixed
- December 1, 2002, to September 2, 2004, is the period during which the alleged fixing of horse races took place
- 17 people have been released without charge
Sources:
- "11 Charged in Bet Scandal", The Telegraph, September 2004
- "Major Inquiry into Internet Betting Scam", BBC News, September 2004
- Betfair website
- PC 55, Operation Krypton Press Release, n.d.