Gambling Ring Probe Leads to 22 Arrests

Authorities say the deputy director of public works for Toms River is among 22 people arrested as part of an investigation into a $1 million-a-week gambling ring.

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The Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office says the enterprise operated in Monmouth, Somerset, Essex and Hudson counties and in New York.

Authorities say the ring used websites to track illegal bets and records profits and losses. Prosecutors also allege members sold marijuana and prescription drugs.

Anthony Benyola of Toms River is suspended from his job with the township's public works department.

Authorities say 55-year-old Richard Crossan of Hillsborough and 38-year-old Anthony Gagliardi of Monmouth Beach acted as co-conspirators.

Three suspects remain at-large.

Initial court appearances are scheduled in Freehold on Tuesday afternoon.