Poker Pro George Janssen Wins MSPT Event Amidst Fraud Conviction
George Janssen, a Michigan poker player, has won the first event of the Major Series of Poker: The Tour (MSPT) at Firekeepers Casino in Battle Creek. This victory comes as Janssen awaits sentencing for a fraud conviction, potentially facing multiple years in prison.
Janssen triumphed in the $400 buy-in Ultimate Stack No-Limit Hold'em event, defeating a field of 312 entrants to secure a $18,556 prize. Notably, this is Janssen's second MSPT title, following a three-way chop with Martin Lee and Albert Colaiz. Janssen, a four-time World Series of Poker Circuit (WSOP) ring winner with over $480,000 in live tournament cashes, has proven his prowess at the poker table.
Janssen's legal troubles began in August when he pleaded guilty to bank fraud. He defrauded several credit unions by filing millions of dollars worth of fraudulent auto loans. His sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 11, 2025, in the United States District Court, Eastern District of Michigan Northern Division. Janssen is not the first Michigan poker player to achieve success while facing a lengthy prison sentence.
Despite his impending legal fate, Janssen has demonstrated his skill and determination by winning the MSPT event. His future in poker and his potential prison term remain uncertain as he awaits his sentencing in December 2025.
