DOJ charges Google staffer over Polymarket trades netting $1.2 million
A Google software engineer has been charged with using confidential company information to profit $1.2 million on Polymarket. Michele Spagnuolo allegedly placed bets based on internal Google data, which he accessed unlawfully. Google has stated that they are cooperating with the investigation and that Spagnuolo's actions represent a serious breach of company policy.
- ▪Michele Spagnuolo, a Google engineer, was arrested for allegedly using insider information to make profitable trades on Polymarket.
- ▪He is charged with commodities fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering for placing bets on search trends.
- ▪Google confirmed they are cooperating with the investigation and have placed Spagnuolo on leave.
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Technology DOJ charges Google staffer over Polymarket trades netting $1.2 million May 27, 20267:35 PM ET Bobby Allyn An aerial view shows Google's "Googleplex" corporate office in Mountain View, California on May 20, 2026. Josh Edelson/AFP via Getty Images hide caption toggle caption Josh Edelson/AFP via Getty Images A Google software engineer has been charged with using confidential company information to make $1.2 million on Polymarket, in the second known federal criminal case connected to lucrative trades on a prediction market site.
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