On October 6, 2025, former Entain (formerly known as GVC Holdings) CEO Kenny Alexander appeared in Westminster Magistrates’ Court with other former senior Entain executives. They are charged with several offenses of alleged illegal gambling in Turkey between 2011 and 2018. They are accused of conspiracy to defraud, conspiracy to bribe, fraudulent trading, tax evasion, and perverting the course of justice. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) have been pursuing the case for a few years.
Background of the Case
The probe focuses on Entain’s historic Turkish business, where the company is accused of offering gambling services in contravention of Turkish legislation. The CPS gave approval for the prosecution of 11 people, including Alexander, and former non-executive chairman Lee Feldman, former finance director Richard Cooper, and former legal director Robert Hoskin. Charges relate to activities from 2011 to 2018, when Alexander headed GVC Holdings, which would subsequently be renamed Entain. During Alexander’s tenure, the firm grew considerably and made several major acquisitions, including Ladbrokes Coral in 2018 for £4 billion.
Details of the Charges
The charges specifically leveled against the individuals are:
Conspiracy to Defraud: Falsely covering up the source of funds arising from gambling operations in Turkey.
Conspiracy to Bribe: Entering into bribery conspiracies regarding the business operations in Turkey.
Fraudulent Trading: Carrying out trading in a way that deceived stakeholders.
Cheating the Public Revenue: Tax evasion and other financial impositions.
Evasion of Income Tax: Unlawfully evading income tax payments.
Being a Director Whilst Undischarged Bankrupt: Being directors whilst being bankrupt.
Perverting the Course of Justice: Interfering with or preventing the course of justice.
Robert Hoskin, the ex-legal director, is also charged with perverting the course of justice.
Entain’s Position
Entain has maintained it is not under any charges and that none of the charged individuals work for the company at present. Entain reached a deferred prosecution agreement with the CPS in December 2023, settling its involvement in the HMRC investigation regarding the company. The corporation refused to comment on the ongoing criminal proceedings further.
Legal Proceedings
The initial court appearance of the accused persons occurred on 6th October 2025 at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. The defendants were not required to enter a plea and were released on bail until their return to court at Southwark Crown Court on 3rd November 2025. The case has generated interest because of the high-profile nature of the accused persons and the severity of the charges.
Implications for Corporate Governance
This case illustrates the growing scrutiny of corporate management and the legal duties they have, especially in foreign operations. It emphasizes the need to comply with local legislation and regulations as well as to conduct transparent and ethical business operations. The decision in this case may serve as a future precedent for corporate governance and accountability within the UK.
The indictment of Kenny Alexander and his ex-counterparts is a landmark in the regulation of cross-border business conduct. Through the unfolding legal process, they will establish broad implications for corporate executives and the norms against which they are judged. The case is a reminder that there is no alternative to compliance and high-level ethics in all business operations.
