The Celebrity Artist Linked to a Big Poker Scam

Artist Turned Scam Suspect

Sophia Wei, known as "Pookie," was a 40-year-old artist who painted portraits for famous people. She painted a big picture of Kevin Hart's late mother in 2020. This was her first paid job as an artist. She started painting during the pandemic lockdowns. She posted pictures on Instagram with celebrities like Drake, Ne-Yo, and Mary J. Blige. She also painted for Shaquille O'Neal's sons. None of these celebrities were involved in any wrongdoing.

The Big Poker Scam

Pookie was one of 31 people charged in a big poker scam. The scam involved mobsters and ex-NBA stars. They lured rich people into poker games and cheated them out of millions. The scam used high-tech tricks like rigged card shufflers and special contact lenses. The games happened in New York City, the Hamptons, Miami, and Las Vegas.

NBA Coach Linked to the Scam

Chauncey Billups, a coach for the Portland Trail Blazers, was linked to the scam. He was one of the NBA stars who lured victims. Pookie was even photographed with him at a poker game in 2019. She was arrested and released on bail. She pleaded not guilty to the charges. She wore a "World Series of Poker" sweatshirt in court.

A Messy Exit

Pookie left her Queens apartment in a mess. Her ex-landlord said she didn't pay rent and left a big nude portrait of herself on the wall. She didn't comment when approached by the media. The scam was elaborate and involved many people. It's a reminder that even in the world of celebrities and high-stakes games, things aren't always what they seem.