‘Jimmy the Greek’ Lit Church Candles While Wishing Debtor’s Family Dead, Feds Claim

The alleged ringleader of a sprawling northwest Indiana gambling ring sent a sinister threat to an indebted gambler from inside a church, according to federal investigators. 

The incident was cited as evidence that James “Jimmy the Greek” Gerodemos could threaten or intimidate witnesses if released, as prosecutors battle to keep him under lock and key.

Gerodemos was among 22 defendants indicted in April over an alleged illegal bookmaking operation that authorities say used threats and intimidation to collect gambling debts.

He is the only alleged member of the organization currently still in jail ahead of trial – although last week U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrew Rodovich ordered him to be freed on a $5 million unsecured bond, pending the government’s appeal of that decision.

‘I Say for Them to Die’

In a filing Monday (September 28) seeking to keep Gerodemos behind bars, prosecutors detailed newly uncovered messages in which he allegedly appeared to threaten the lives of one gambler’s family members.

Gerodemos allegedly told the gambler he was spending $300 to light a candle for the man’s mother and sent him a short video filmed inside a church.

“I just lit some candles for your family,” Gerodemos allegedly said in English before switching to Greek. FBI translators said the Greek portion included the words, “I say for them to die.”

Prosecutors characterized the exchange as part of a months-long campaign of threats intended to force the gambler to pay.

‘Inflammatory’ But Not a Threat, Lawyers Say

Gerodemos’ attorneys strongly disputed the government’s interpretation.

In a response filed Tuesday, they acknowledged that messages included images of candles being lit and language wishing that a debtor’s relatives would die. However, they argued that wishing somebody dead, however offensive, did not amount to threatening violence.

The defense also argued there is no evidence Gerodemos would attempt to intimidate witnesses now that he has been indicted and knows his communications are under federal scrutiny. Home confinement and restrictions on contacting witnesses would adequately address any concerns, it added.

Millions in Alleged Gambling Proceeds

The government claimed an ongoing IRS investigation has identified about $1.8 million flowing to Gerodemos from alleged gambling proceeds, suspected bettors, and unexplained checks.

Prosecutors said Gerodemos’ annual Super Bowl betting pools alone generated between $700,000 and $900,000 and contend that more than $1 million in alleged gambling proceeds remains unaccounted for.

His lawyers rejected the suggestion that he has hidden cash, saying federal authorities have already seized his bank accounts and taken control of his restaurants. They also challenged the government’s contention that his Greek family connections make him a flight risk, pointing out that the US has an extradition treaty with Greece.

Gerodemos remains temporarily detained while the district court considers the government’s request to overturn the release order. The judge’s ruling is expected this week.