No Charges Yet But Authorities Still Plan to Keep $2,000,000 Seized from The Lodge

No Charges Yet But Authorities Still Plan to Keep $2,000,000 Seized from The Lodge

Author: PokerNews Podcast April 10, 2026 Duration: 26:29

In the 955th episode of the PokerNews Podcast, Chad Holloway is joined by Mike Holtz and Ben Ludlow for a special episode devoted to the latest update in The Lodge saga.

The popular poker room near Austin, Texas, was raided back on March 10, and authorities had a 30-day window, until April 9, to file for civil asset forfeiture. Despite not yet filing any criminal charges, authorities did file a document with the 480th Judicial District Court in Williamson County that explained why the state is holding on to over $2 million in assets.

The future of The Lodge Card Club is uncertain now that the state can hold onto the money. But Thursday's outcome doesn't mean this is the end for the major poker club, nor does it ensure criminal charges will never be filed. The nine-page court document indicates the state is no longer pursuing money laundering allegations against the Texas card room and instead is focusing on the alleged illegal gambling aspect.

What does this mean for the future of poker in Texas? There may be some clues in the court documents, which the crew explores in full.

A new PokerNews Podcast drops every day this week at approximately 8a PT / 11a ET / 4p UK time. Remember to subscribe to our YouTube channel so you do not miss an episode!

Time Stamps
*Time    Topic*
00:00 | Welcome to the show
00:42 | Authorities file before deadline
03:00 | Focus on illegal gambling; money laundering dropped
05:30 | The Texas poker model under fire?
12:00 | Raking tournaments?
15:30 | Isn't Texas supposed to be land of the free?
19:00 | Where did the money come from?
21:27 | Could a settlement be in store?
23:17 | What are economic benefits?


Every Friday, the longest-running news show in poker drops a new episode, offering a direct line into the heart of the community. With over 800 episodes in the archive, the PokerNews Podcast has become a Friday ritual for players and fans alike, blending the week's most urgent headlines with deeper stories, spirited debates, and the occasional bit of insider gossip. Host Chad Holloway, a WSOP bracelet winner himself, is joined by co-hosts like a Game of Gold star, ensuring the conversation is always grounded in real experience. They don't just report the news; they dissect it with a player's perspective. Tuning in means hearing from the most influential voices in the game, from Poker Hall of Famers to reigning World Series of Poker Main Event champions, who share stories you won't find anywhere else. This isn't just a recap; it's a weekly immersion into the strategies, scandals, and personalities that define the modern poker landscape. Whether you're grinding online or just love the drama of the felt, this podcast delivers the authentic, unfiltered sound of the game every week.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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