Michael V. Badalucco admits being a bookie for an illegal gambling operation

Michael V. Badalucco admitted in federal court today that he was a bookie for an illegal gambling operation in Kansas City, Missouri.

Badalucco, 26, from North Kansas City, waived his right to a grand jury and pleaded guilty this afternoon to his role in running an illegal sports bookmaking business.

Prosecutors say Badalucco and other bookmakers gave bettors a 1-800

number and Web site to bet on sporting events, and used

another 1-800 number to track the wagers and account balances.