Former Jaguars Financial Manager Accused of Stealing Millions

Gambling Addiction Cited as Motive, Guilty Plea Planned

Jacksonville, Fla. — In a shocking turn of events, a former financial manager of the Jacksonville Jaguars is now facing federal charges for allegedly stealing more than $22 million from the franchise. Amit Patel, the accused, is reportedly battling a severe gambling addiction and intends to plead guilty to resolve the charges brought against him.

Patel’s attorney, Alex King of First Coast Criminal Defense in Jacksonville, revealed in a statement that “approximately 99% of the funds misappropriated” from the team’s virtual credit card program were used for gambling activities. It is said that most of Patel’s gambling occurred on two prominent websites.

The NFL launched an investigation into Patel’s gambling habits earlier this year, resulting in a meeting with him in February. As a consequence of this investigation, the Jaguars first suspended and then terminated Patel’s employment.

King emphasized that his client has recognized the severity of his actions and has taken steps to address his addiction. “Mr. Patel suffers from a serious gambling addiction, and in the spring of this year, checked himself into extensive, inpatient rehabilitation to address his addiction,” King stated. However, he also made it clear that the addiction does not excuse Patel’s behavior, for which he has assumed full responsibility.

Acknowledging that gambling addiction can be difficult to grasp for those unfamiliar with it, King drew a comparison to substance abuse. He explained, “Although incomprehensible to most, a gambling addiction is similar to substance abuse, such that the disorder can stimulate the brain’s dopamine response much like drugs or alcohol do. It provides an uncontrollable urge to keep gambling despite the toll it takes on one’s life and creates a willingness to risk more and more, despite the impact it has.”

Despite Patel’s intentions to win back his losses and repay the misappropriated funds, his gambling addiction persisted, leading to the dire consequences he now faces.

Gambling Scandal Hits Jacksonville Jaguars

A former employee of the Jacksonville Jaguars, Shad Khan’s NFL team, is facing serious charges related to fraud and illegal monetary transactions. Rohan Patel, who served as part of the Jaguars’ staff for five years, has been accused of misusing funds from the organization to support his extravagant lifestyle and cover his previous gambling losses.

According to court documents filed in U.S. District Court, Patel allegedly used the embezzled money for various lavish purchases. This includes buying two vehicles, a condominium in the upscale neighborhood of Ponte Vedra Beach, and a high-end designer watch worth a staggering $95,000. He even dabbled in cryptocurrency investments and continued making bets.

The court filing reveals that Patel’s spending spree didn’t stop there. He also used the misappropriated funds to acquire sports memorabilia, a luxurious membership at a prestigious country club, spa treatments, and tickets to sporting events and concerts. He went as far as chartering private jets for himself and his friends. In addition, he secured the service of a criminal defense law firm by lodging a retainer.

However, Patel’s defense attorney, John King, insists that the funds used for these acquisitions did not come solely from the Jaguars. King claims that most of Patel’s modest residence was paid for using family money and other legitimate sources of income. Instead, Patel allegedly resorted to tapping into the Jaguars’ VCC program in a misguided attempt to repay his prior gambling debts.

Patel now faces charges of wire fraud and illegal monetary transactions. If convicted, he may be forced to forfeit all property and assets that were purchased or funded through these illegal activities.

In response to this scandal, King states that Patel deeply regrets his actions and is genuinely sorry for the harm caused. He expresses remorse for losing his dream job with the Jacksonville Jaguars and damaging the reputation of the organization. Patel is currently undergoing treatment and recovery for his gambling addiction and is committed to seeking ongoing help for the foreseeable future.