The Turbulent Past of the Rowhouse Embroiled in the N.B.A. Betting Scandal

In the heart of Greenwich Village, a historic rowhouse has been making headlines for its alleged connection to a recent N.B.A. betting scandal. However, the building's fascinating history stretches far beyond its current notoriety. With a past that reads like a script from a Hollywood movie, this unassuming rowhouse has been a residence of choice for an eclectic mix of celebrities, musicians, and even purported Mafia operatives.Located in one of New York City's most iconic neighborhoods, the rowhouse has been a fixture on the local landscape for over a century. Its storied past began in the late 19th century when it was home to John Philip Sousa, the renowned American composer and conductor best known for his patriotic marches, including "The Stars and Stripes Forever." Sousa's residency in the rowhouse marked the beginning of a long history of attracting high-profile residents.Fast-forward to the 21st century, and the rowhouse had become a haven for A-list celebrities. In 2017, reality TV star and social media influencer Kylie Jenner purchased the property for a reported $1.4 million. Jenner's ownership sparked a flurry of interest in the rowhouse, which was previously unknown to the general public.However, according to prosecutors, the rowhouse had been hosting a more illicit activity – Mafia-controlled poker games. In a shocking revelation, authorities alleged that organized crime figures had been using the property as a front for their underground gaming operations. The alleged poker games were said to have been taking place in the rowhouse's basement, with high-stakes games attracting wealthy players.The rowhouse's connection to the N.B.A. betting scandal has brought its checkered past back into the spotlight. Prosecutors claim that a group of individuals, including a sportsbook operator, had been involved in a large-scale betting scheme that targeted N.B.A. games. The alleged scheme involved bribing players and officials to influence game outcomes, with the rowhouse purportedly serving as a hub for the operation.As the investigation into the betting scandal continues, the rowhouse remains at the center of the controversy. Its complex history, marked by both glamour and illicit activity, serves as a reminder that even the most seemingly ordinary buildings can hold extraordinary secrets. The Greenwich Village rowhouse may have been a residence of choice for celebrities and musicians, but its alleged ties to organized crime and betting scandals have cemented its place in the annals of New York City's history.