Former NYPD Officer Ran Gambling RIng

A former NYPD detective and his wife were arrested last week for allegedly running a gambling ring and several brothels that operated in several counties.

Ludwig Paz and his wife Arelis Peralta stand accused of running brothels in Queens, Brooklyn, and Nassau, as well as a gambling ring that operated as an illegal lottery. Those lotteries were being operated out of a deli and a beauty salon in Queens. The investigation began after there were reports of gambling and prostitution given to Internal Affairs in 2015.

According to officials, Paz used his knowledge of police procedures to avoid being caught. He reportedly went as far as to require new clients to undress themselves and be fondled, and also paid for confidential information to know when raids may be incoming.

Making matters worse, there were several other officers that have been charged for aiding the ringleaders in avoiding detection and promoting the criminal enterprises to others. In addition to the ringleaders, six other cops were arrested for aiding and abetting the enterprises, and three dozen citizens were picked up in the raids.

Commenting on the crime NYPD Commissioner James O'Neill said, "Whenever officers betray trust by engaging in criminal behavior, they tarnish the shields they wear. The New Yorkers we serve will never tolerate this, and neither will this police department."