NFL: Ex Jaguars Employee Amit Patel Sent To Jail

India-West News Desk

JACKSONVILLE, FL – Former Jaguars employee Amit Patel, who admitted to embezzling $22 million from the team, received a 6½-year prison sentence . U.S. District Judge Henry Lee Adams Jr. also ordered Patel, 31, to pay $21.1 million in restitution to the NFL team and attend Gamblers Anonymous meetings.

During the hearing, Patel expressed remorse, stating, “I stand before you embarrassed, shamed, and disappointed by my actions.” He disclosed his year-long sobriety and efforts to address his gambling addiction, saying, “I can never truly convey how sorry I am to everyone affected by my actions.”

Megha Parekh, the Jaguars’ senior vice president and chief legal officer, delivered a statement on behalf of the team, expressing betrayal by Patel, whom they had entrusted with his “dream job.” Parekh emphasized the emotional impact of Patel’s actions, stating, “We take no joy in his punishment. Make no mistake, Amit broke our hearts.”

Patel’s attorney, Alex King, advocated for punishments ranging from probation to one year in prison, ESPN reported.

King attributed Patel’s actions to a gambling addiction, noting that “99% of the misappropriated funds” were used to cover gambling losses. Patel’s history of gambling dates back to high school, with instances of using his mother’s credit card for gambling.

The NFL prohibits club and league employees from gambling on sports, including daily fantasy sports. Patel’s termination from the Jaguars in 2023 coincided with his diagnosis of a gambling disorder and subsequent participation in treatment programs.