Full Breakdown
FBI Investigation into Illegal Gambling Operation at La Catedral Arena in Wilder, Idaho
10/20/2025, 1:25:04 AM
Overview of the Investigation
On October 15, 2023, federal prosecutors filed criminal charges against Ivan Tellez, the owner of La Catedral Arena LLC, for allegedly running an illegal gambling operation at his horse racing facility in Wilder, Idaho. The investigation, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), culminated in a raid on the property on October 15, where agents from various law enforcement agencies, including the Idaho State Police (ISP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), were present.
Key Details of the Allegations
The FBI's investigation began in February 2023 following a tip regarding illegal gambling activities at La Catedral Arena. According to court documents, Tellez operated parimutuel betting without the necessary state license, which is required for such activities in Idaho. The Idaho State Racing Commission confirmed that Tellez had not applied for a license to conduct parimutuel betting, and his event permit explicitly prohibited such activities.
Samuel Bejarano, identified as the bookmaker for the operation, allegedly facilitated betting through social media platforms, including Facebook. Investigators uncovered evidence of financial transactions totaling approximately $17,000 linked to illegal wagers, with Bejarano reportedly accepting bets via electronic payment services like Venmo and Cash App.
Law Enforcement Actions
During the raid, law enforcement observed individuals engaging in cash transactions and identified couriers who were allegedly collecting bets at the racetrack. Undercover agents documented these activities, which included Bejarano accepting wagers from attendees. Tellez is accused of being deeply involved in the operation, including setting race conditions and placing his own bets.
Legal Consequences
If convicted, Tellez could face up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelsey A. Manweiler.
Community Impact and Response
The raid has raised concerns within the local community, with reports of families being separated during the law enforcement operation. The ACLU of Idaho has expressed concerns regarding the treatment of individuals detained at the scene. A community meeting was scheduled to address the situation and assist families seeking information about detained relatives.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have raised alarms about the methods used by law enforcement during the raid, including reports of officers using rubber bullets and the presence of heavily armed agents. The ACLU has indicated that they are monitoring the situation closely.
Verbatim Quotes
- “In his affidavit, Special Agent Sheridan wrote that Tellez is involved in the illegal gambling business at La Catedral Arena because he owns the racetrack where the gambling occurs, knows about the illicit gambling given his presence in Facebook threads where gambling is discussed and his presence at the track during races, is a member of the committee that sets horse entry and minimum wager amounts, runs his horses in the races and places his own bets through Bejarano.” — FBI Special Agent Jacob Sheridan
- “The State of Idaho requires a license to operate horse race-based betting.” — Criminal Complaint
What's Next
The investigation is ongoing, with further legal proceedings expected as the case develops. Community members are urged to attend the upcoming meeting to discuss the implications of the raid and the legal situation surrounding La Catedral Arena.
