BetOnSports sacks boss held in US jail

Published on Tuesday 25 July 2006 12:02

DAVID CARRUTHERS, the Scottish-born boss of online gaming firm BetOnSports, was today axed from his post as he languishes in detention in the United States on racketeering charges.

London-based BetOnSports said Mr Carruthers was removed from the chief executive's role and booted out as a company director as a consequence of his continued detention by US authorities.

The 49-year-old - arrested last week while en route from London to the company's base in Costa Rica - is among 11 people and four companies charged with alleged violations of America's Wire Act.

The Department of Justice indictment refers to "illegal wagering on professional and college football and basketball" which BetOnSports offers on its website.

BetOnSports, which has been forced to close down around 85 per cent of its business due to the ongoing investigation, said: "Clearly, while he remains in the custody of the US government, he is unable to perform his duties."

The company said it was currently evaluating its options and deciding what steps to take next.