Michigan Closes 14 Illegal Gambling Businesses
In 2019, the Michigan Gaming Control Board in partnership with the Attorney General Office tackled the issue of unlawful gambling companies. Served with cease and desist orders were 14 operations. The state authorities analyzed all of the operations. However, the businesses said that they allowed games that required some form of skill, which the state accepts.
Games that don’t need any skills include Roulette, Video Poker, Wheel of Fortune and Dice to name a few. Reports state that the establishments had casino styled video slot machines. Moreover, the games centered around chance instead of offering games based on skill.
Gambling Against the Law in Michigan
Richard S. Kalm, Michigan Gaming Control Board said gambling against the law can encourage money laundering. Illegal activity compromises safety and security in Michigan. On the other hand, legal gaming is taxed. In addition, illegal gambling is not taxed and doesn’t help the community in any way. He added that the companies decided to close down the business rather than face any criminal charges. Further, the operations would be looking at a 10-year felony.
Dana Nessel from the Michigan Attorney General said that gambling regulations are there for a purpose. Also, some people don’t want to adhere to the law. She wants prosecution for these criminals. She also extended how thankful she is to work with the Michigan Gaming Control Board.
Michigan Illegal Gambling Games
The places that had to shut down illegal gambling in 2019 include:
- Lapeer County
- Washtenaw County
- Kent County
- Oakland County.
