BREAKING: An alleged Israeli mobster, Assaf “Ace” Waknine, is facing serious federal extortion charges linked to high-stakes poker games in Los Angeles. Authorities announced the charges following a disturbing connection to the 2023 murder of Emil Lahaziel, a player killed during one of these exclusive gatherings.
In a recently filed affidavit, Waknine is accused of attempting to extort the host of a private poker game by demanding $5,000 per game in “protection” fees. The poker games, which feature buy-ins starting at $20,000, have drawn players ranging from celebrities to wealthy entrepreneurs. The affidavit highlights the tense atmosphere surrounding these games, noting that players can win or lose millions in a single night.
Waknine, who has reportedly been living in Mexico since his deportation from the U.S. in 2011, allegedly threatened the victim after he refused to pay. “I guess you really want to end up like your other b**** a** poker buddy,” he reportedly texted, referring to Lahaziel’s murder. The victim, feeling threatened, canceled the upcoming game, stating, “I just don’t want to deal with that s***.”
The situation escalated when a series of violent incidents occurred around these poker games. In May 2023, a Beverly Hills home hosting a game was set ablaze, and a Bentley SUV parked nearby was torched. Just days later, shots were fired at another location connected to the games, raising concerns about safety among participants.
The affidavit reveals an alarming trend: the Waknine brothers are linked to a “cottage industry” of private high-stakes poker, which surged during the COVID-19 pandemic. Players are often entertained by cocktail waitresses, many of whom are models or social media influencers. The host of one particular game reportedly earned over $100,000 in a single night by taxing staff tips.
The violence surrounding these games culminated in the death of Emil Lahaziel, who was shot outside a game location. According to Homeland Security Investigations special agent Matthew Hernandez, Lahaziel had a troubling history, including inflammatory messages directed at the Waknine brothers before his murder. Two individuals, Ricardo Corral and Jose Martinez Sanchez, have been charged in connection with the shooting, both pleading not guilty.
Waknine’s criminal ties extend beyond poker games; he is known to have connections with the Mexican Mafia and historically Black gangs, such as the Crips, often using them as enforcers for his extortion schemes. Despite these serious allegations, Waknine is currently not in custody.
The ramifications of this case are profound, affecting not only the poker community but also raising questions about safety and criminal activity in high-stakes gambling environments. The unfolding developments will be closely monitored as federal authorities continue their investigation into Waknine’s alleged operations.
Stay tuned for more urgent updates on this developing story as it continues to unfold.
