Gambling Tycoon Laurence Escalante Faces Charges for Family Violence and Burglary
Laurence Escalante, a prominent figure in the online gambling industry, has recently appeared in a Perth court facing serious charges, including family violence and burglary. The 44-year-old is known for his business, Virtual Gaming Worlds (VGW), which engages users in virtual slot machines and online casinos.
Allegations and Court Appearance
Escalante is accused of assaulting a 24-year-old woman at her home on Australia Day. The incident allegedly included breaking and entering, property damage, and theft. In total, Escalante faces eight charges related to these offenses.
- Persistently engaging in family violence
- Aggravated assault occasioning bodily harm
- Criminal damage or destruction of property
According to police, additional charges pertain to serious family violence incidents that are said to have occurred from June 2025 to January 2026.
Drug Allegations
During a recent police search of Escalante’s residence, authorities reportedly found a trafficable quantity of illicit drugs, including cocaine and MDMA.
Background and Wealth
With an impressive net worth of $4.5 billion, as cited in the Australian Financial Review’s latest Rich List, Escalante has built a successful career. He began his journey flipping burgers at Hungry Jack’s as a teenager before pursuing studies in economics at Macquarie University.
Escalante’s career in online gaming started with a Christian gaming venture in the early 2000s. He founded VGW in 2010, which is now headquartered in Perth but serves a customer base predominantly located in the United States, reportedly attracting up to one million active users daily.
Lifestyle and Social Presence
Escalante is also recognized for his lavish lifestyle. He is active on social media, showcasing his wealth, which includes a collection of supercars, a private jet, and a luxury yacht.
As proceedings unfold, the implications of these serious charges against Laurence Escalante remain to be seen, potentially affecting both his personal life and business ventures.
