Local

Another Allied Veterans suspect pleas in Internet gambling case

SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — The longtime vice president of the Jacksonville Fraternal Order of Police has pleaded guilty for his role with a veterans' organization that prosecutors say was a front for a $300 million gambling operation.

Robert Freitas made the plea Tuesday, but his attorney says prosecutors aren't seeking jail time beyond what he's already served. Freitas has agreed to testify in other cases, if necessary.

Freitas was charged with multiple felonies, including illegally structuring financial transactions and running an illegal lottery.

The statewide investigation into Allied Veterans of the World resulted in the arrest of 57 people, the passage of legislation outlawing Internet cafes and the successful prosecution of Allied Veterans attorney Kelly Mathis.

Many suspects have reached plea deals with prosecutors that will also spare them jail time.