Betonsports boss pleads not guilty

No bail...

David Carruthers, the ex-CEO of Betonsports, appeared in court in St Louis yesterday and pleaded not guilty to racketeering charges.

Carruthers, wearing a prison-issue white T-shirt and khaki trousers, spoke only to confirm his name, age, and plea. He was returned to custody, although his lawyers are believed to be close to a deal for his release. It is expected he would have to stay in St Louis, post a $1m bail, and wear a GPS tag.

US authorities want $4.5bn and cars and computers from the company. They also want all money held by US account-holders returned. The case is being run by Missouri District Attorney Catherine Hanaway - previously a Republican representative.

The case will return to court 21 August before Judge Mary Ann Medler. More details here.

Seven* other individuals also pleaded not guilty, including company founder Gary Kaplan's brother and sister.

Betonsports did not appear or send a representative.

Company founder Gary Kaplan is still missing.

More from Reuters and The Guardian.

In a separate hearing, the injunction stopping Betonsports from taking bets was extended. ®

*Bootnote: Thanks to Reg reader George who pointed out that one suspect - William H Lenis - has pleaded guilty.