Legality of Online Poker

I don't know if you folks are aware of what's has going on in New York City. The NYPD has been cracking down on the formerly rapidly growing underground poker scene.

The most notable bust involved Major League baseball player, and MVP, Alex Rodriquez, who has since sworn off poker clubs.

The NYPD's position has been to not punish the players (they are released without charge), but the "third party" vis a vis the owners who are profiting from the gambling.

If such is the case, what do I have to fear by playing online and reporting the money that I win? I'm not the third party.

As an aside, I've noticed that IGOTPOKER.COM advertises constantly on WFAN, which is the main sportsradio station here in NYC. I've also noticed that the ads make it seem as though IGOT is simply a place to "learn" poker, as opposed to a gambling site.

I'm sure this topic has been discussed, but if some the veteran 2+2ers could indulge some of the newer members, it would be greatly appreciated.

The bottom line: What exactly is the current legal status of online poker.

Thank you