High-Stakes Poker Games and the Shadow of Crime

In the Glitzy World of Los Angeles, a Dark Underbelly of Crime Emerges

In the glitzy world of Los Angeles, where high-stakes poker games attract celebrities and wealthy entrepreneurs, a dark underbelly of crime and intimidation has emerged. A recent legal filing reveals how a notorious figure, Assaf "Ace" Waknine, allegedly used threats and violence to extort money from poker game hosts.

The Accusations

Waknine, a 52-year-old Israeli national, is accused of sending threatening messages to a poker game host who refused to pay him a cut of the profits. The threats were not subtle. In one message, Waknine referenced the violent death of Emil Lahaziel, a poker player who was shot in the face in 2023.

"I guess you really want to end up like your other b— a— poker buddy."

A Reputation for Violence

Waknine's reputation for violence is well-documented. He has a criminal record that includes convictions for assault, burglary, forgery, and illegal eavesdropping. His brother, Hai Waknine, has also been involved in criminal activities, including racketeering and threatening businessmen.

The High-Stakes Poker Games

The poker games in question are no small-time affairs. With buy-ins starting at $20,000, these games attract high rollers and are staffed with models, chefs, and security personnel. The host of one such game could make over $100,000 in a single night by taking half of the staff's tips.

A History of Violence

But the games have not been without incident. In May 2023, a series of arsons disrupted the games. A Beverly Hills residence where a game was held was set on fire, as was a Bentley SUV parked outside another poker party. In one instance, shots were fired into a house.

The violence escalated with the murder of Emil Lahaziel. Lahaziel, who had a lengthy criminal record himself, was shot outside a poker game. The murder received widespread attention in the insular world of high-stakes poker.

The Legal Battle

Waknine's alleged involvement in the murder and his threats to poker game hosts paint a picture of a man who uses fear to get what he wants. His lawyer denies the charges, stating that Waknine does not engage in such activities. However, the evidence presented in the affidavit suggests otherwise.

The Darker Side of High-Stakes Poker

The case highlights the darker side of the high-stakes poker world, where large sums of money and a lack of oversight can attract criminal elements. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of law enforcement in dealing with organized crime in Los Angeles.