Ruined family: DraftKings accused of exploiting the weaknesses of a compulsive gambler
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15 Dec 2024 •
Reading time: 3 minutes Lisa D’Alessandro, a mother from New Jersey, accuses the sports betting platform DraftKings of having exploited the addiction of her husband, known under the pseudonym “Mdallo1990”, to push him to bet more than he could afford.
The case started like many other stories of online betting, but it took a dramatic turn that is now making headlines. Between 2020 and 2024, Lisa’s husband bet nearly $15 million on DraftKings, accumulating total losses of $942,232. Over the course of four years, his gambling habits grew from a modest $3,775 per month to a staggering $125,000 per month. That was well above his annual income of $175,000. To fund his gambling, the addicted husband drained the family savings, ran up credit card debt, and used funds meant for his children’s future.
VIP Program in the Spotlight
According to Lisa D’Alessandro’s lawsuit, DraftKings played an active role in fueling her husband’s addiction. The platform allegedly targeted high-spending players to join its VIP program.
The program offered enticing perks: privileged contact with the DraftKings team, which offered free bets, extra credits, lavish gifts, and luxurious trips. According to her, these privileges would have encouraged her husband to continue betting, even when the signs of an addiction were evident.
A prevention policy called into question
The complaint also raises questions about DraftKings’ failure to comply with the rules for preventing gambling problems. DraftKings’ company policy is very clear: it requires verification of the origin of the funds of high-rollers and increased monitoring for signs of addiction. Despite this, Lisa maintains that no banking or tax documents were requested from “Mdallo1990”. This is why she believes that DraftKings knew that her husband was using inappropriate funds but chose to turn a blind eye.
This case comes at a time when online sports betting is exploding in the United States, authorized in 39 states and Washington D.C. While this expansion offers new economic opportunities, it also raises growing concerns about the risks of addiction and financial ruin. A recent study highlights the links between the size of the industry and the harm caused by gambling, calling for societal interventions.
What is the aim of the complaint?
Lisa D’Alessandro is seeking compensation for the money lost and the harm done to her family. She accuses DraftKings of negligence and unfair practices in violation of New Jersey consumer protection laws. Her lawyers say this case goes beyond a simple individual case:
“DraftKings did not just provide a service; they promoted a destructive addiction.”
Will DraftKings respond?
So far, the company has not commented on this case. This lack of response could be interpreted as a strategy of secrecy in the face of such a serious accusation. However, this case could set a precedent and redefine the responsibilities of platforms in the fight against gambling addiction.