Date: December 24, 2024, Time: 09:35 AM. 

Last updated on: December 24, 2024, Time: 09:35 AM.

An inmate at a Louisiana state prison was arrested last week for allegedly operating a large-scale illegal sports gambling operation from inside the facility.

Broderick Scott, 48, who was serving time at Elayn Hunt Correctional Center, was charged last Wednesday after an 18-month investigation into illegal gambling activities at Hunt and other state prisons, as per a statement from Louisiana State Police (LSP).

Evidence indicated that Scott ran the operation from within the facility using contraband that was smuggled in to support his activities,” the statement from last Friday mentioned.

Scott was transferred to Iberville Parish Jail. He faces charges of gambling and establishing social networking accounts unlawfully as an inmate.

Convict Linked to 30K Transactions

Scott, previously from Addis, La., was associated with over 30,000 transactions related to the multi-prison gambling ring, according to LSP.

Authorities did not disclose the amount of money wagered in the sports betting ring or the charges that led to Scott’s initial incarceration.

The investigation began in 2023 when LSP looked into reports of contraband smuggling at various state prisons, ultimately focusing on Scott while he was at Hunt prison in St. Gabriel, La.

Warning Issued

Upon announcing the arrest, LSP emphasized that using third-party vendors or apps like ‘Cash App’ to send money to inmates is illegal.

There is no valid reason for an inmate to request family or friends to place money on an app for purchases while incarcerated,” the statement added.

Inmates often persuade associates to send money under false pretenses for commissary goods, but in reality, these funds support illegal activities like purchasing drugs or contraband, or smuggling such items into prison.

The only authorized method to send money to inmates is via JPay or other approved methods listed on the Louisiana Department of Corrections website.

LSP also emphasized their commitment to investigating illegal activities within state prisons.

Louisiana State Police is dedicated to working with local authorities to uphold the integrity and security of correctional facilities in Louisiana. Any illicit activities will be thoroughly investigated, and offenders will face consequences,” the statement from LSP noted.