Devin Boutte, a professional American football player for the New England Patriots, faces legal troubles stemming from nearly 9,000 wagers he placed in his native Louisiana between April 2022 and May 2023 while underage.
The Louisiana State Police Gaming Enforcement Division arrested Boutte, who was just 20 years old when making these bets, violating the minimum legal age of 21 to participate in sports betting in Louisiana.
To circumvent age restrictions, Boutte allegedly used an alias during his betting activities, all while being an active member of the Louisiana State University (LSU) football team.
Among his numerous wagers, at least 17 were related to National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) football games, including six associated with LSU football events.
Following an investigation that commenced in July, the police secured an arrest warrant on January 18.
Boutte now faces charges of computer fraud and underage gambling. Although he has been released from custody, the ongoing investigation could lead to additional charges.
Boutte, who joined the New England Patriots in the 2023 NFL draft, has managed two receptions, 19 receiving yards, and a receiving average of 9.5 yards in his debut season with the team.
This incident coincides with a call from the NCAA for increased protection for student-athletes against gambling-related harm.
The organization urges states to update their laws and regulations to safeguard the integrity of collegiate competitions.
While nearly 40 states have legalized sports betting since the repeal of PASPA in 2018, the NCAA notes that only some of them include adequate protection and integrity provisions for its athletes.
Consequently, the NCAA advocates for improved legislation and has proposed model legislative provisions that states can adopt.
They have also committed to collaborating with lawmakers in states seeking to legalize sports betting to ensure these protective provisions are incorporated into the legislation.
Although Boutte has not yet faced suspension from the NFL for his past betting activities, the league has previously suspended players for betting on sports. Last summer, several players received suspensions for violating NFL rules on sports betting.
This includes Eyioma Uwazurike of the Denver Broncos, Isaiah Rodgers and Rashod Berry of the Indianapolis Colts, and free agent Demetrius Taylor, who were all found to have placed wagers on NFL games during the 2022 season.
Additionally, Nicholas Petit-Frere of the Tennessee Titans faced a six-game suspension for betting on non-NFL sports at the club facility.
The NFL strictly prohibits gambling activities within any club or league facility, including practice facilities.