Referee Tim Donaghy pleaded guilty to two felony charges Wednesday in New York in an NBA betting scandal.

 

According to ESPN.com news services, Donaghy faces a maximum of 25 years in prison when he is sentenced for conspiracy to engage in wire fraud and transmitting wagering information through interstate commerce.

 

Donaghy provided recommendations, called "picks" to co-conspirators about what team they should bet on, said US District Court Judge Carol Bagley Amon. If he was correct, they paid him.

 

The picks included information about games that Donaghy officiated, the government said.

 

The information was not public, the judge said. Donaghy had "unique access," including what crews would officiate at games, the interaction of different officials and players, and the physical condition of certain players. He concealed the scheme from the NBA and other referees to avoid detection, the judge said.

 

Donaghy also must pay a US$500,000 fine and at least US$30,000 in restitution.

 

"Tim is relieved this part of the proceeding is over and we look forward to completely resolving this matter in the coming months," said Donaghy's lawyer John Lauro.

 

"Tim deeply regrets his involvement in this matter and especially the pain it has caused his family, friends and co-workers," he added.

 

Donaghy, who stood ramrod-straight, hands clasped in front of him, spoke in nearly inaudible tones as he told the judge that he is seeing a psychiatrist for his gambling addiction, and is taking an antidepressant and anxiety medication.

 

The two alleged co-conspirators were in the custody of federal marshals on Wednesday and were awaiting arraignment on conspiracy charges carrying a maximum penalty of 20 years.

 

(Xinhua News Agency August 16, 2007)