Former National Basketball Association referee Tim Donaghy was found guilty in a betting scandal with two other professional gamblers. Donaghy turned himself in to the federal authorities on Wednesday.

The referee said he made NBA bets for four years, even gambling on games he worked. He also admitted recommending bets to high-stakes gamblers and collecting $5,000 if his picks hit.

Judge Carol Bagley Amon of U.S. District Court in Brooklyn said Wednesday that the information was not public. According to her, Donaghy had “unique access,” including what crews would officiate at games, the interaction of different officials and players, and the physical condition of certain players. He concealed the scheme from the NBA and other referees to avoid detection, she said.

Donaghy, 41, is scheduled to be sentenced May 22. By law, he faces up to 25 years in prison, though the term could be much lower under sentencing guidelines.

Donaghy’s next court date is Nov. 9. He turned over his passport and is now bounded to seek permission in case he has to travel anywhere other than Pennsylvania, Florida or New York.

James Battista, 42, one of the professional gamblers, attended the same high school as Donaghy in Springfield, Pennsylvania. The other alleged co-conspirator was identified by prosecutors as Thomas Martino.

Tags : NBA, referee, gamblers, court

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