FBI Files on Joe Paterno Reveals Fear of Organized Crime and Gambling Threats
FBI files on Penn State’s long time former football coach, the late Joe Paterno, make no mention of former assistant coach Jerry Sandusky, who was sentenced in a child abuse case this summer. They do, however, point to the theory that organized criminal factions with gambling interests may have been threatening the head coach and his staff during the late 1970’s and early 80’s via a series of letters.
“It now appears to [Paterno], the purpose of letters is to disrupt his football team,” an FBI memo obtained by the Washington Times said.
“[Gamblers] may be using this technique to benefit themselves in future point-spread betting involving PSU and opponents.”
One of the letters to a Paterno staffer in December 1977 mocked the FBI’s involvement and Paterno’s gambling theory.
“So you think I am a gambler — the only gambler is Paterno - he is gambling with your life. … I want to make him suffer. I want it to be on his concious that he was responsible for a tragic accident to you.”
The author adds: “The FBI can’t be with you every minute of every day.” It was signed “Crank.”
- Jagajeet Chiba, Gambling911.com
