Drake and Adin Ross Face Legal Action over Alleged Illegal Gambling Promotion
Summary
A class-action lawsuit filed in federal court in Virginia names musician Drake and streamer Adin Ross, alleging they promoted the sweepstakes-style casino platform Stake.us in ways that encouraged real-money gambling. Plaintiffs say the platform uses a dual-currency model — “Gold Coins” for play and a separate token called “Stake Cash” that can be exchanged for real money — which they claim disguises gambling as sweepstakes to operate where online casinos are otherwise restricted.
The complaint accuses the influencers of repeatedly showcasing high-stakes betting, giveaways and wins during livestreams and social posts, creating a false impression of low risk while downplaying financial danger and addiction. The suit also brings broader claims, including alleged racketeering under RICO, arguing that internal tipping and fund flows facilitated unregulated money transfers and were tied to promotional schemes. Plaintiffs seek damages for Virginia residents who lost money over the past three years, penalties and an injunction. Similar suits against Stake have been filed in other states, signalling rising regulatory and legal concern about sweepstakes casinos and influencer marketing.
Key Points
- A federal class-action in Virginia names Drake and Adin Ross for allegedly promoting Stake.us in a way that drove real-money wagering.
- Stake.us operates a dual-currency model: purchaseable “Gold Coins” and “Stake Cash”, the latter reportedly convertible to real money.
- Plaintiffs say this structure masks gambling as sweepstakes, enabling operations in states with stricter online-gambling rules.
- The complaint includes RICO-style allegations, claiming tipping and internal transfers acted as informal money-movement mechanisms tied to wider schemes.
- Drake is accused of using proceeds to support artificial streaming and social amplification; Ross is alleged to have been a frequent promotional partner, exposing younger viewers to gambling.
- The suit seeks damages, consumer-protection penalties and an order to stop the alleged unlawful activity; related litigation against Stake has appeared in other states.
Why should I read this?
Short version: celebrities promoting sketchy sweepstakes casinos could now face real legal heat. If you follow influencer marketing, gambling law or celebrity PR disasters, this is the sort of case that changes how brands, creators and platforms behave — and might reshape regulation. We skimmed the legal jargon so you don’t have to.
Author’s take
Punchy and to the point: this isn’t just a PR headache — alleged RICO claims and cross-border promotion tactics make this potentially precedent-setting. Expect regulators and brands to pay very close attention; influencer deals will get more cautious and compliance-heavy fast.