Criminal charges have been filed against Iowa State wrestler Paniro Johnson accusing him of tampering with records related to the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation’s probe into sports gambling.

Johnson is accused of concealing his identity "with the intent to deceive or conceal a wrongdoing.” Details say Johnson wagered $45,640 on approximately 1,283 bets. Authorities allege he placed approximately 25 bets on Iowa State events. In June, the NCAA lightened its gambling policy punishments. However, Johnson could still face permanent loss of eligibility due to guidelines that prohibit athletes from wagering on sports at their own schools. If Johnson did in fact not gamble on Iowa State sports, he could still face loss of 30% of a season of eligibility plus rules and prevention education for gambling over $800. It is not clear at this time the punishments Johnson could face if all bes occurred during his grey shirt year, but the complaint does mention Johnson briefed university and NCAA policies. The NCAA has not issued a suspension or commented on the situation at this time.

Johnson was a Big 12 champion for the Cyclones this past season as a freshman at 149 lbs. He is still listed on the official Iowa State wrestling roster. However, fellow freshman NCAA qualifier Casey Swiderski has publicly stated that he will be competing at 149 lbs this year.

Johnson, as well as three football players including 2022 starting quarterback Hunter Dekkers, were charged. Earlier this spring, Iowa State announced it self-reported gambling allegations of “approximately” 15 student-athletes. Meaning, there could still be more charges to be placed. In a statement to press in May, head coach Kevin Dresser said, “I know there’s rules, and if they didn’t follow the rules, there’s going to be penalties.”

Also in May, the University of Iowa announced that 26 athletes across five sports, including wrestling, were under investigation for gambling violations. No charges have been filed against Hawkeye athletes at this time.