The Michigan Gaming Control Board Wednesday restated its commitment to identifying and removing unregulated casino-style gambling machines from businesses, and shutting down illicit gambling operations.
In a statement, MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams noted the organization’s progress in combatting unregulated gambling.
“Thanks to the vigilant supervision of the Michigan Gaming Control Board, last year agency personnel were able to target and disrupt several instances of illegal gambling activities that undermined the integrity of our legitimate, regulated gaming industry,” Williams said. “With a commitment to maintaining fairness, transparency, and public trust, these proactive efforts were undertaken — thanks to many tips from concerned Michigan citizens — to ensure safe, regulated gambling environments. I encourage the public to please keep the tips coming, as we take each one very seriously.”
Michigan law prohibits any kind of gambling unless specifically authorized under state law, such as gambling machines operated within licensed casinos. A release stated that illegal gaming machines have become “a pressing concern with the potential to undermine the significant investments made by legitimate gaming establishments.” The release also noted the lack of consumer safeguards in illegal operations that licensed and regulated establishments provide.
In 2023, 64 Michigan businesses received letters to cease illegal gambling, leading to 167 illegal gambling machines being removed and/or taken out of operation. Progress also was made in confiscating and liquidating assets connected to illegal gambling operations.
MGCB investigations that partnered with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office also resulted in 79 machines used for illegal gambling being seized in 2023. Nine individuals were convicted of criminal gambling and 24 were arraigned on illegal gambling charges.
