Van Dyke, 38, allegedly used his access to classified information to place bets on the prediction market Polymarket, making approximately 13 bets that favored the outcome of US forces being in Venezuela and Maduro being ousted by January 31, 2026. He faces multiple charges, including wire fraud and unlawful use of confidential government information, which could result in up to 60 years in prison. The Department of Justice emphasized that military personnel are prohibited from using sensitive information for personal financial gain, highlighting the seriousness of the breach of trust involved in this case.
POLITICSPublished 24 Apr 2026 • Published 15h ago
US Soldier Gannon Ken Van Dyke Charged for Betting Scheme
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Gannon Ken Van Dyke, a US soldier, has been charged with using classified information to win over $400,000 by betting on the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. This incident follows the military operation that successfully captured Maduro in January 2026, raising significant concerns about insider trading within military ranks.
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