By Illinois Review
A suburban restaurant owner and local social media personality is being held in federal custody after a judge denied him bail in connection with a sweeping multi-state illegal gambling and money laundering investigation.
Filippo Rovito, also known as “Gigi,” was arrested by federal agents last Wednesday and charged as part of an 87-page indictment filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Indiana. The case alleges a large-scale sports betting and money laundering operation based in Northwest Indiana that involved more than 20 defendants.
Rovito is the owner of Capri Ristorante in Burr Ridge and is identified in court documents as a participant in what prosecutors describe as a long-running criminal enterprise involving illegal gambling, extortion, and debt collection activities.
According to the indictment, the operation was allegedly led by James Gerodemos, known as “Jimmy the Greek,” and Dean Gialamas. Prosecutors say the group relied on a network of bookmakers, collectors, and associates to carry out its activities across multiple states.
Federal authorities allege the organization operated illegal sports betting through online platforms, phone and text communications, and large-scale betting pools tied to major sporting events. The indictment further claims that proceeds from the operation were laundered through various channels, including businesses connected to the defendants.
Investigators also allege that members of the organization used threats and intimidation to collect gambling debts. Prosecutors cited those allegations, along with Rovito’s background, in arguing that he posed a danger to the community.
A federal judge agreed, ordering Rovito held without bond pending further proceedings. A detention hearing is scheduled for Monday to determine whether he will remain in custody as the case moves forward.
If convicted, Rovito faces significant prison time. Charges outlined in the indictment include operating an illegal gambling business, conspiracy, extortion-related offenses, and money laundering. Several of those charges carry maximum penalties of up to 20 years in federal prison. Sentencing would ultimately depend on the outcome of the case, the number of counts proven, and federal sentencing guidelines.
Court records also show that Rovito has a prior criminal history. In the 1990s, he was convicted as a teenager in a case involving aggravated criminal sexual assault and kidnapping of a female minor, for which he served time in prison.
News of the arrest has circulated widely on local community social media pages in Burr Ridge, where residents have expressed concern and surprise given Rovito’s role as a local business owner.
The case remains ongoing, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court. Federal authorities have not yet announced a trial date.
