The online gaming brand, 5Dimes, announced that it has finally reached a settlement agreement with the US Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania (EDPA). This paves the way for 5Dimes to enter the legal and regulated US online betting industry.
5Dimes was founded by Tony Creighton and controlled by him for many years. He was under federal investigation by the Department of Justice but a case was never brought against him because Creighton was tragically kidnapped and murdered in 2018.
Last year, his widow, Laura Varela, contacted the authorities in a bid to try and resolve any issues between them and 5Dimes. Verala voluntarily cooperated with the EDPA, with her objective being to clear the company’s name and resolve the criminal investigation. She identified problematic assets and agreed to forfeit $46 million to the government.
The DOJ confirmed that Varela was not involved in illegal actions and “was never employed as a manager” through the company. She also “did not exercise day-to-day authority over the operations at 5Dimes.”
Speaking about the settlement agreement, Varela said: “It has been a very difficult two years for me and my family. But today marks a pivotal turning point and a fresh start for me and the 5Dimes brand, as well as a milestone for the legalization of sports gaming in the U.S. My husband’s death was tragic, but he loved 5Dimes and all of its loyal customers. Now his spirit will be able to live on as the 5Dimes brand begins this new chapter.”
She added, “Along with a team of trusted advisors, I am exploring how we might relaunch 5Dimes as a legal sportsbook and casino in the legal, regulated U.S. market to continue serving our many loyal customers.”
