An illegal sports betting ring allegedly headed up by a mafia member has been broken up in New Jersey, officials said.

Authorities on Thursday announced charges against 14 people in connection with the multimillion dollar ring after a nearly two-year investigation.

"This was truly a family affair"

Authorities say it was headed up by Joseph "Little Joe" Perna, a soldier in the Lucchese crime family. Perna, 55, is charged with racketeering, conspiracy, gambling offenses and money laundering. He was charged along with his son, stepsons, nephews, wife, and ex-wife.

"This was truly a family affair," Attorney General Matthew Platkin said.

Authorities said the group ran multiple electronic sports books across the Garden State.

Despite sports betting being legal in New Jersey, organized

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