The NFL is conducting an investigation into Kayshon Boutte following his arrest for involvement in illegal gaming activities.
New England Patriots wide receiver Kayshon Boutte was arrested last Thursday on charges related to illegal underage gambling during his time at LSU, as reported by the Associated Press.
He faces formal charges of felony computer fraud and misdemeanor Gaming Prohibited for Persons under 21. The former charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine, while the latter carries a maximum sentence of six months in prison and a $1,000 fine.
The NFL is currently investigating the situation, as confirmed by Jeff Miller, the league’s executive vice president of communications, public affairs, and policy, during a Tuesday statement to reporters. Miller emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and that further details will be shared when available.
Authorities allege that Boutte used the fake name Kayla Fortenberry during his college days to create an online betting profile. He is accused of making over 8,900 illegal bets, with six of them reportedly placed on LSU games, including two in which he participated. Boutte won over $500,000 from these bets and reinvested the money in future wagers.
One of the wagers involved a bet on an LSU football game where Boutte predicted he would score a touchdown and accumulate over 82.5 receiving yards. However, he finished the game with two catches for 20 yards and no touchdowns.
LSU became aware of the allegations in July and has fully cooperated with the ongoing investigation. The university stated that there is no evidence of other student-athletes participating in such activities and expressed gratitude for measures in place to detect and deter sports gambling-related misconduct.
