A former Philadelphia probation officer traded upholding the law for breaking it, running a clandestine sports betting operation for nearly a decade. Joseph M. Moore, 43, recently faced sentencing for his double life, a stark fall from a position of public trust.
Moore received a one-day jail sentence, followed by a year of home detention, three years of supervised release, and a hefty financial penalty. He’ll forfeit $200,000 and pay a $7,200 fine, a consequence for years spent profiting from illegal wagers.
The scheme, dubbed the “Moore Gambling Business” by prosecutors, began in early 2017 and continued until February 2025. Moore orchestrated a network of bets on sporting events, alongside lucrative “block pools” and other group betting arrangements.
He pleaded guilty in October 2025 to a single charge of running an illegal gambling business, admitting to taking a cut of every winning bet. Bettors could wager on individual games or participate in pools with entry fees reaching $500, with potential payouts in the thousands.
Moore’s profit margin was calculated and consistent: roughly 10% of all winnings. For standard bets, the commission was subtly woven into the odds, ensuring a steady stream of income.
Crucially, Moore wasn’t alone. James P. DeAngelo, a 45-year-old Philadelphia police officer, played a pivotal role in the operation’s success and longevity. He wasn’t merely an associate, but a key facilitator.
DeAngelo actively recruited another accomplice and forged a connection to an offshore gambling website. This allowed Moore’s network to expand, offering users a platform to open accounts and place bets through their system for an additional fee.
The arrangement proved lucrative for DeAngelo as well, earning him a percentage – sometimes as high as 20% – of bettors’ losses. He also personally accepted wagers and directed customers toward Moore’s broader operation.
Over the years, the operation amassed hundreds of thousands of dollars from hundreds of participants. The FBI led the investigation, meticulously unraveling the complex web of bets and financial transactions.
Prosecutors emphasized that this case is distinct from other recent illegal gambling prosecutions in Pennsylvania, which focused on unlawful gaming machines. This case centered on a deliberate, organized sports betting ring operated by individuals sworn to uphold the law.
DeAngelo awaits sentencing on April 30, 2026, facing the consequences of betraying his oath and collaborating in a years-long criminal enterprise.
