An 18-month investigation called Operation Dirty Play is coming to a close after authorities arrested several men accused of betting on youth football while coaching it. The issue was first brought to light by an ESPN report last year.
Authorities say a Lauderhill barbershop was the front business for the gambling operation which took place in a secret backroom at Red Carpet Kutz.
Betting also happened at a second front business called Showtime Sports and Apparel. Patrons could place wages on pee wee football games as well the NFL, Major League Baseball and other sporting events.
The Broward Sheriff's office has charged the accused ringleader, Brandon Bivins, with felony bookmaking and operating a gambling house. Bivins is the president and coach of the youth football team Fort Lauderdale Hurricanes.
Several other fellow coaches and team officials were also arrested from the South Florida Youth Football League.
Investigators staked out the two businesses and sifted through Bivins' trash to help build their case.