SCOTUSblog Publisher Indicted for Tax Evasion, Gambling Debts

BETHESDA, Md. — Tom Goldstein, the prominent publisher of SCOTUSblog and a seasoned Supreme Court litigator, was indicted Thursday in Maryland federal court on charges of tax evasion, filing false tax returns, and using funds from his law firm to cover millions in gambling debts.

The indictment alleges that between 2016 and 2022, Goldstein, described as an “ultrahigh-stakes poker player,” engaged in a scheme to evade taxes, underreport gambling winnings, and misuse funds from his Bethesda-based boutique law firm, Goldstein & Russell. The charges include allegations that he borrowed over $9.5 million from a California businessman, losing most of it in high-stakes poker games.

“Goldstein allegedly used millions of dollars from his law firm to cover gambling debts and other personal expenses, while falsely understating his gambling winnings in tax filings,” the indictment states. He also faces accusations of creating sham employment arrangements with four women, paying them through his firm while they performed little or no work.

Goldstein, who has argued more than 40 cases before the U.S. Supreme Court, including the landmark copyright case Google v. Oracle, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The indictment seeks criminal forfeiture of any property derived from the alleged offenses, raising concerns about the future of SCOTUSblog, a widely respected legal resource.

“This news may signal a real farewell to SCOTUSblog,” wrote a legal commentator, noting the potential impact on the site’s operations. The blog, known for its comprehensive coverage of the Supreme Court, has already scaled back its reporting in recent years.

Goldstein’s legal troubles stem from a years-long investigation into his financial activities. The indictment details his use of a personal “Gambling Account” to manage payments related to poker games, separate from his law firm’s accounts. Prosecutors allege that he failed to pay substantial tax obligations during the six-year period.

If convicted, Goldstein could face significant prison time and financial penalties. The case has sent shockwaves through the legal community, where he is widely regarded as one of the nation’s most experienced appellate attorneys.