9 Charged in Toronto Illegal Gambling Operation
Posted on: February 3, 2026, 12:46h.
Last updated on: February 3, 2026, 12:46h.
- Nine busted after Toronto police investigation into illegal gambling ring
- Video gaming machines, cash, drugs seized
- Investigation began in 2024
York Regional Police have arrested nine individuals after a two-year investigation into illegal gambling operations in both Toronto and Vaughan, a city located just north of Toronto.
Investigators seized video gaming machines and related accessories, illicit tobacco and alcohol, as well as controlled substances and “proceeds of crime” from the investigation, called Project Scala, that began in 2024. The York Regional Police Traditional Organized Crime Task Force conducted the investigation alongside South Simcoe Police Service.
Video Gaming Machines Seized
The individuals that were charged were alleged to have collected money from these illegal gambling establishments. The search warrants were executed Jan. 22 at a residence and gaming house in Vaughan, as well as two houses and two gaming houses in Toronto.
Warrants were also carried out by police at a business and storage locker in Toronto, along with two motor vehicles.
Cash and Crypto
The crime proceeds included a large quantity of bulk currency, silver bars and coins and a crypto wallet.
Police arrested Alessaandro Ortolano, 56, of Vaughan, Giorgio Campagna, 64, of Toronto, Giuseppe Minaci, 61, of Toronto, Giuseppe Ferraro, 63, of Cambridge, Caprice Sluman, 61, of Vaughan, Salvatore Blandad, 50, of Tottenham, Paul Lessis, 47, of Innisfil, Gaspere Malfara, 70, of Vaughan, and James Sze, 27, of Toronto, with crimes ranging from Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000, Keep Common Gaming/Betting House, Have Money or Property for Betting/Gaming, and Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking.
York police are asking anyone with information to contact them at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6970. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS or by visiting their website.
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