LAS VEGAS - Forty-three-year-old Robert Walker has been indicted by a federal grand jury. He's charged with causing a domestic financial institution to fail to file an accurate currency transaction report.
In laymen's terms, Walker is accused of betting big at the Golden Nugget sports book and lying about the source of the cash.
Court documents reveal Walker told the Golden Nugget he was not gambling on behalf of anyone. Federal authorities say he was gambling for Acme Group Trading, LLC.
Authorities narrowed in on three different transactions at the Golden Nugget - three in March and one in April - totaling more than $72,000.
However, legal sources familiar with this matter tell 8 News NOW the IRS is not interested in Walker. Rather, they are hot on the trail of legendary Las Vegas gambler Bill Walters, who incorporated Acme Group Trading, a sports wagering company.
Tax agents were reportedly flabbergasted by an appearance Walters made on CBS' "60 Minutes" in January. During the broadcast, Walters acknowledged using a network of betting agents known as "beards."
Watch the "60 Minutes Report"
Walters told "60 Minutes" his partners use nicknames like "J-Bird" and "Wolfman". They then place large wagers on sporting events, especially football games.
Well-informed sources say federal agents offered to make a deal with Robert Walker if he would agree to testify against Walters, but Walker turned them down.
Walker's attorney Mark Bailus declined to comment as he left federal court Wednesday. Now, Walker has been indicted - something Walters has been through before.
"How many times have you been indicted?" "60 Minutes" reporter Lara Logan asked Walters in January.
"Four," Walters replied.
Each time, Walters won in court. The famous bettor may be called there again before this latest IRS battle is over.
8 News NOW reached out to Bill Walters on his cell phone and through his attorneys. The calls were not returned. The IRS would not comment, because this investigation is ongoing.
Robert Walker was released from custody Wednesday. His trial is scheduled to take place in Las Vegas February 7.
