JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The man accused of stealing $22 million from the Jacksonville Jaguars pleaded guilty to federal charges of wire fraud and engaging in illegal monetary actions.
Patel stole money from the team through its virtual credit card program from 2019 until the team fired him in February 2023.
Documents show Amit Patel is accused of using funds he stole from the team to pay for a condo in Ponte Vedra, chartering private jets, a Tesla, a $95,000 watch and more.
His lawyer tells First Coast News that a vast majority of the money was lost in online sports gambling through the websites Fan Duel and Draft Kings. During the sentencing, Patel paused while saying that he does not have any mental disorders, telling the judge that he has a gambling disorder and is being treated and seeing a therapist. His lawyer has cited Patel's gambling addiction as the driver in his deception, saying that Patel admits to using team money for gambling.
Patel entered a written plea in court Thursday, telling the judge he understands the charges and potential consequences.
Patel faces a maximum prison term of 30 years and a maximum fine of $500,000 combined for both felonies.
Now that Patel has pleaded guilty, he will have to forfeit property to government valuing up to $22 million -- the amount he admitted to stealing.
Documents say this property includes his Ponte Vedra condo, 2021 Tesla and Nautilus watch.
A federal judge recommended that Patel be released on $10,000 bond. He is not allowed to travel outside of the Middle District of Florida jurisdiction. He is also not allowed to contact any former or current Jaguars employees, unless his lawyer is present.