Former LSU wide receiver Kayshon Boutte was arrested on Thursday for allegedly using an alias to bet on sports while he was underage. According to the Louisiana State Police, Boutte is facing a felony count of computer fraud and a misdemeanor count of gaming prohibited by persons under 21.
The investigation revealed that Boutte placed over 8,900 bets between April 6, 2022, and May 7, 2023. At least 17 of those bets were on NCAA football games, with at least six of them being LSU games. The police have accused Boutte of using an alias to conceal his identity while engaging in illegal sports gambling.
LSU released a statement acknowledging the allegations and stating that they have fully cooperated with the authorities throughout the investigation. They also mentioned that they have no evidence of any other student-athletes participating in such activities.
The New England Patriots, Boutte’s current team, are aware of the situation and stated that Boutte is cooperating with the Louisiana police regarding the investigation. They did not provide any further comments at this time.
Sports betting became legal in Louisiana in 2021 for individuals over the age of 21. Being found guilty of betting underage carries a penalty of a fine of up to $500, imprisonment for up to six months, or both.
Boutte had a successful college career at LSU, catching 131 passes for 1,782 yards. However, he faced a suspension in 2021 for accepting money in exchange for an autograph before the implementation of the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rules. He was selected by the New England Patriots in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft and has appeared in three games for the team, recording two catches for 19 yards.
It remains to be seen how Boutte’s arrest will impact his football career and future prospects. The legal process will determine the consequences he will face for his alleged involvement in illegal sports gambling while underage.
