Benesch Litigation Partner Shaneeda Jaffer was interviewed on Forbes Newsroom, discussing the federal case against MLB pitchers Luis Ortiz and Emmanuel Clase, who are accused of conspiring with bettors to rig pitches for illicit gains, leading to serious fraud and money laundering charges. The conversation also examines the legal consequences and potential repercussions for professional sports.
In the segment, Shaneeda provides legal analysis on the MLB gambling scandal, emphasizing how the Department of Justice is increasingly focused on rooting out corruption in professional sports, especially as legalized sports betting and prop bets make the system more vulnerable. She explains the seriousness of the charges against the accused pitchers, noting that conspiracy allegations can carry steep penalties related to the sums involved. Shaneeda discusses potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, highlighting the importance of the full context behind evidence like text messages and money trails, and explains how defenses may challenge the narrative presented in the indictment. She also explores how the players’ non-U.S. citizenship could influence their legal considerations and discusses the broader message these high-profile indictments send to athletes, underlining the government’s determination to preserve the integrity of sports.
Watch the video here.