November 27, 2013
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 27, 2013 |
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Location: Cadillace Place, 3062 W. Grand Blvd, L-700, Detroit
Contact: Gary Paolella (313) 456-3879
Time: 2:00 p.m.
Michigan Gaming Board Suspends Charitable Gaming Due to Illegal Gambling at Lucky's Poker Room
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has suspended all charitable poker and gaming at Lucky’s Poker Room, Lucky’s Bingo Hall, Shamrock’s Tavern, and Shamrock Internet Café, which is located at 6340 N. Genesee Road, Flint, Michigan. This marks the 18th “poker room” either banned or suspended as a location since 2010. The emergency suspension centers on a joint investigation by the Michigan State Police (MSP) and the Michigan Attorney General’s Office regarding suspected illegal gambling and fraudulent activities which involved the poker room owner/agents.
On Monday, November 18, 2013, investigators from the Michigan State Police and the Michigan Attorney General’s Office executed a search warrant at Lucky’s Poker room to seek evidence regarding illegal gambling. That investigation is ongoing but alleges illegal payoffs to customers betting on computer slot machines located at the business. This constitutes the operation of an illegal gambling house and violates Michigan gambling laws.
Unlicensed gambling is a felony offense with punishments of a $100,000 fine, 10 years in prison, or both under the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act.
A total of 5 charitable organizations were currently licensed to conduct their millionaire party events at Lucky’s Poker Room. Due to the suspension, those licensed charities will be redirected to other venues until further notice or receive a license fee refund.
According to MGCB Executive Director Rick Kalm, “Because of the illegal activity at this location, immediate action to protect the safety, welfare, and integrity of gaming is necessary.” “We encourage charities managing events to monitor and report illegal gambling activities. New proposed rules will hopefully increase charitable organizations’ involvement and raise awareness of their exposure when locations break the law.”
A copy of the Emergency Order of Suspension which was issued to Lucky’s Poker Room can be found on the MGCB website at Michigan.gov/mgcb.
Michigan citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious or illegal gambling to the Michigan Gaming Control Board by calling their 24-hour anonymous tip line at 888-314-2682. To contact the Attorneys General’s Alcohol & Gambling Enforcement Division, please call 517-241-0210.
