Roll Call-Breaking the Cycle: Gambling & Criminal Justice Involvement

July 28, 2026

2:00 – 3:00 p.m.

As Illinois continues to rapidly expand gambling access through online sportsbooks, video gaming terminals, casinos, and prediction markets, gambling has become a fast-growing but often invisible driver of criminal behavior. Breaking the Cycle: Gambling and Criminal Justice Involvement provides crucial updates on the state’s evolving landscape and its direct link to recidivism, risks, and needs. This presentation equips justice professionals with the tools to identify problem gambling, assess associated risks, and connect clients with vital community-based support to support positive outcomes and ongoing recovery.

Presenter Nina Naus

Nina Naus, LSW, CADC (She/They), holds a master’s degree in social work from Aurora University. As a social worker with Nicasa Behavioral Health Services, they specialize in the prevention, education, and treatment of substance use, mental health, and gambling disorders. With more than 17 years of experience as a probation officer and over 3 years of direct social work, Nina has dedicated their career to understanding the complexities of trauma and co-occurring recovery using therapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and trauma-informed care.