Barcoded decks, contact lenses and X-ray tables: How New York’s mafia allegedly ran illegal poker games tied to US athletes

These two images show an X-ray poker table that the Department of Justice says was employed by conspirators in the case. US Department of Justice

You can picture the scene. Tucked somewhere between the glitter and grit of Manhattan, a room wafting smoke with the rhythm of a poker game seemingly like any other: Cards whisper against felt, chips click in steady tempo, and players sit around a table, guarding their hands – and secrets.

Some of the players lured to the table – seduced by celebrity faces and the illusion of fair play – are unaware they have just taken a seat at a game rigged by some members of New York’s mafia – La Cosa Nostra, authorities say.

That illusion was shattered Thursday when gambling and sports rigging schemes linked to the mob led to the arrests of 31 defen