Amit Patel, a former financial manager for the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars, is currently serving a 6 1/2-year prison sentence for embezzling $22 million from the team. In a significant legal twist, Patel has filed a $250 million lawsuit against the betting giant FanDuel, accusing them of exploiting his gambling addiction. The suit alleges that FanDuel ignored responsible gambling protocols, enticed Patel with gambling credits and gifts, and allowed him to wager millions, which were allegedly stolen funds. This case highlights the ongoing debate about the accountability of gambling companies in exacerbating addictive behavior.

Former NFL Financial Manager Sues FanDuel for $250 Million

Patel alleges FanDuel exploited his gambling addiction Amit Patel, who stole $22 million from the Jacksonville Jaguars, has filed a lawsuit against FanDuel, claiming the company preyed on his gambling addiction. The lawsuit accuses the betting platform of ignoring its own protocols and allowing Patel, an NFL employee, to place illegal bets using stolen funds.

FanDuel Allegedly Ignored Responsible Gambling Policies

Accusations of protocol violations The lawsuit argues that FanDuel disregarded its responsible gambling and anti-money laundering regulations. Despite knowing that Patel was an NFL employee and thus ineligible to gamble, the company allegedly permitted him to wager $20 million over several years. The suit claims this money was either stolen or from illegitimate sources.

Enticements and Credits Allegedly Fuelled Gambling Addiction

FanDuel reportedly incentivized further gambling Patel’s suit alleges that FanDuel actively encouraged his gambling, offering more than $1.1 million in credits and contacting him up to 100 times per day to entice further betting. His personal host reportedly pushed him to continue gambling, even calling early in the morning and late at night when Patel hadn’t yet placed bets.

Lavish Gifts Given to Maintain Loyalty

Trips and exclusive experiences The lawsuit claims that FanDuel showered Patel with high-value gifts to reinforce his loyalty. These included tickets to prestigious events such as the Super Bowl, Masters golf tournament, auto races, and college basketball tournaments, further deepening Patel's gambling addiction.

Legal Context and Precedents

Similar lawsuits brought by other gamblers Patel’s case mirrors previous legal actions by compulsive gamblers who accused casinos and online gambling platforms of exploiting their addictions. Notably, in 2008, a federal judge dismissed a similar lawsuit by a New York attorney who argued that seven casinos had a duty to prevent her from gambling, knowing she was addicted.

Patel’s Guilty Plea and Financial Responsibility

Guilty plea to fraud and repayment obligations In December, Patel pleaded guilty to wire fraud and other related charges. As part of his plea agreement, he has committed to repaying the $22 million he embezzled from the Jacksonville Jaguars. Despite his criminal acts, Patel’s lawsuit seeks to assign part of the responsibility for his actions to FanDuel’s alleged misconduct.