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Fort Bragg Soldier Pleads Not Guilty to Betting on Maduro Operation

KVIA•Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at 5:22 PM•CNN Newsource

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Gannon Ken Van Dyke, a 38-year-old active duty soldier from Fort Bragg, has pleaded not guilty to charges of misusing classified information related to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Prosecutors allege that in the days leading up to the January 3, 2026, military operation, Van Dyke placed approximately $32,000 in bets on a prediction market, ultimately netting over $400,000 after the successful raid. This case marks a significant legal precedent as it is the first federal indictment linked to betting on geopolitical events. Van Dyke faces multiple charges, including wire fraud and commodities fraud, and was released on a $250,000 bond following his arrest. His actions have raised concerns about the ethics of betting on military operations and geopolitical events.

Key Details: • Operation occurred on January 3, 2026. • Van Dyke placed bets totaling $32,000 on Polymarket. • He earned over $400,000 from his bets after the operation. • Released on $250,000 bond after his arrest. • First federal charges related to betting on a prediction market.

military maduro fraud betting geopolitical-events

People & Organizations

Donald TrumpVenezuelaFort BraggGannon Ken Van Dyke

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