Gambling High Roller Ramon DeSage Accused of Tax Evasion: Defrauded Investors

Las Vegas businessman, Ramon DeSage, who was previously accused of defrauding investors out of $191 million now faces additional allegations that he failed to pay nearly $87 million in federal income taxes.

The U.S. District Court in Las Vegas handed down a four-count indictment against DeSage on Tuesday.  It illustrates casino and bank wire transfers totaling $15.1 million.

The 61-year-old DeSage previously pleaded not guilty to fraud charges in the Ponzi scheme case and is being held on house arrest.  Prosecutors assert that DeSage utilized three of his companies to defraud investors. 

The so-called “Vegas Sheik”, who arrived in Sin City by way of France and Lebanon over 35 years ago, was once found guilty of making illegal campaign contributions to former Republican presidential contender Bob Dole in 1999.

He's due for arraignment Aug. 15 on the new charges.

- Gilbert Horowitz, Gambling911.com