Inside the World of Illegal Sports Betting

Owen Hanson once thrived as a collegiate athlete but later orchestrated a clandestine sports gambling operation, eventually broadening into transnational financial schemes involving laundering and drug distribution supported by cartels.

In his earlier years, Hanson played football at the University of Southern California as a backup tight end. However, his ventures took a different trajectory when he commenced transporting anabolic steroids across the border between the US and Mexico during his school years. After the economic downturn of 2008, he ventured into the world of sports betting, establishing a wagering enterprise named ODOG, targeting affluent bettors from a base in Costa Rica. Leveraging his sports networks, Hanson manipulated game outcomes, corrupted athletes, and coerced debtors through intimidation. His unlawful activities culminated in an arrest by the FBI in 2017 on charges including criminal enterprise conspiracy and trafficking of drug substances. Consequently, he received a federal prison sentence of over 21 years, of which he completed seven years and relinquished $5 million in property.

In a conversation with Business Insider, Hanson delved into the intricacies of money laundering and the extravagant world of elite sports wagerers. He also shed light on cartel alliances and the intricate methods of steroid trafficking via the US-Mexico frontier.

From Athlete to Author

Beyond his controversial past, Hanson penned 'The California Kid: From USC Golden Boy to International Drug Kingpin.' Reinventing himself in the business sphere, he launched California Ice Protein, an innovative frozen confection inspired by traditional Mexican treats. His notorious journey is also chronicled in a three-part documentary series titled 'Cocaine Quarterback,' overseen by Mark Wahlberg's production company, Unrealistic Ideas, which debuted on Prime Video earlier in September.

Hanson's narrative explores themes of ambition, underground dealings, and transformation, perfectly encapsulating the duality of his life experiences.

For a visual narrative of his life, 'Cocaine Quarterback' can be accessed on Prime Video.

In visual media related to Hanson, brand logos have been deliberately blurred to prevent any unintended endorsements or associations with the controversial activities being depicted.