Guilty plea after Joplin arcade tied to $9.3 million illegal gambling ring
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A New York man has pleaded guilty to helping operate a $9.4 million illegal gambling ring that included a Joplin arcade and five other locations across southwest Missouri.
Sunilkumar N. Patel, 53, an Indian national, pleaded guilty Thursday to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to operate an illegal gambling business, conspiracy to commit money laundering and money laundering.
Patel admitted he and his co-conspirators collected approximately $9.36 million from the gambling operation and later conducted financial transactions to launder the proceeds.
Federal prosecutors said the businesses presented themselves as internet amusement arcades, skill-game arcades and adult arcades. Investigators said the locations instead offered slot machines, gambling devices and other games of chance in violation of state and federal law.
The operation included Spin Zone at 2331 E. Seventh St. in Joplin. Four locations operated in Springfield, while another was located in Branson West.
Patel and eight other people were charged in a 72-count federal indictment in May 2025. Prosecutors said the businesses operated from July 2022 through May 2025.
Patel could receive up to 20 years in federal prison on each of several charges and up to five years for the illegal gambling conspiracy.
A sentencing hearing has not been scheduled.
