Summary:
- Nearly 2,000 machines have been confiscated in Michigan.
- More machines are likely to be destroyed in the future.
- Regulators are trying hard to crack down on illegal gambling.
Illegal gambling is frowned upon in the United States, though it happens regularly. Players have access to all sorts of gambling across the country, but illegal machines or activities still occur in many areas. In Michigan, players can enjoy sports betting, commercial and tribal casino gaming, plus poker in a legalized manner. Still, unlicensed illegal gaming machines are popping up, and regulators have had enough.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board recently showed force and destroyed several seized unlicensed illegal gaming machines in a Detroit junkyard. The machines were seized during raids after investigations by the state’s Attorney General.
Danger in Illegal Gaming
Henry Williams, the Executive Director of the Board, commented recently on the dangers of illegal gaming. The activity threatens the citizens of the state and local communities. It can lead to organized criminal activity, social issues, and financial exploitation.
Williams pointed out that unregulated slot machines can lead to losses in state revenues, as illegal gaming providers are not reporting earnings or paying taxes to the state. They are taking away support that would otherwise be granted via licensed operations. The money generated from gaming goes toward supporting the local School Aid Fund and other needs.
What are Unregulated Gaming Machines?
For most players, they see a gaming machine and play it. Consumers assume that if a gaming machine is inside a legitimate business, then it is legal to play. However, games known as skill machines are popping up across the US, including Michigan, and are not legal to play.
The state does not license these games and they are not legally allowed to function. Michigan gambling laws do not allow any form of betting that is not regulated by the state gaming board. Last year, the state launched a joint effort with the gaming board and Liquor Control Commission to try and teach businesses and the public about illegal gambling games.
Investigations were started, and raids were conducted to remove the machines from the state’s businesses. So far, just under 2,000 machines have been removed from businesses and over $470,000 in cash.
The state’s Attorney General’s office has hundreds of gaming machines and equipment related to operations. The machines are likely to be destroyed once criminal proceedings are completed. The machines will be crushed once the legal process is through, as they cannot be sold or reused.
Citizens of Michigan are being asked to report any suspicious gambling activity or illegal machines. Consumers can contact the local tipline or send a Michigan to the tip board for reporting.
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