Successful poker career overshadowed by legal problems
cristos, 38, rose to prominence in the poker world when he won the WPT Legends of Poker tournament at The Bicycle Casino in 2013 and later the 2019 U.S. Poker Open.
Despite his success at the poker table, he has faced several criminal charges.
Earlier this year, authorities charged him with stalking, intimidation and domestic violence. In September, he was sentenced to one month's imprisonment for domestic violence.
At the end of his sentence, two more cases of intimidation were pending.
The first case concerned threats against Family Court Judge Regina McConnell. She was in charge of the custody of Crista's child. The second case concerned threats against Adam Pliska, CEO of the World Poker Tour.
Court issues stern warning
District Judge Monica Trujillo was particularly concerned about Cristos' past actions and how he might behave during the trial.
Media reports indicate that the judge told Cristos that his repeated actions showed a pattern, even though he had received help and therapy.
“I know how to help people get better,” the judge said. “But the court sees that you are still interfering with people and violating court orders, even though you have received the help and counseling you need.”
Cristos did not plead guilty, as most people do. Instead, he opted for an Alford plea, which allows the defendant to plead not guilty but agree that the government has enough evidence to convict him.
Under this agreement, he was sentenced to 14-48 months imprisonment.
A polarising figure in the poker world
Cristos has long been a controversial figure in the poker world, despite being an exceptionally gifted player.
He was known on social networks for his erratic behaviour and often clashed with other players.
His X account was deactivated.
Prosecutors decided to drop a separate charge of stalking against Leon Wheeler, who runs the poker room at Resorts World Las Vegas, as part of his plea agreement.
Cristos had a promising poker career, but problems in his personal life prevented him from achieving it.
He used to be proud of his big wins, such as the 2019 US Poker Open Championship, but now he is facing legal problems that have put his career on hold.
Many in the community want him to put his life and reputation in order and get back into the game.
