May 13, 2014
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 14, 2014 |
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Location: Cadillac Place, 3062 W. Grand Blvd, L-700, Detroit
Contact: Information Officer (313) 456-4178
On May 13, 2014, The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) suspended all charitable poker and gaming at Mr. B’s, Troy, Michigan connected to the Hamlin Pub. Arcadia Poker Supplier, LLC (Arcadia) is a licensed millionaire party supplier providing equipment to charities conducting millionaire party events at Mr. B’s. The suspension centers on an ongoing investigation by the MGCB involving suspected illegal gambling and fraudulent activities involving Arcadia owner/agents.
The investigation preliminarily reveals repeated violations or refusal to comply with numerous provisions of Michigan’s Bingo Act, which authorizes charitable events. This prompted an emergency summary suspension of all licensed charity events at this location in order to protect the welfare and integrity of charitable gaming. The licensed charity groups scheduled to hold future events at this location have been notified and will be redirected to other venues.
The preliminary investigation has revealed multiple cases where: players were encouraged to illegally sell chips between themselves in order to circumvent the $15,000 limit on chip sales; agents of Arcadia engaged in poker playing while assisting in the operation of the event; agents of Arcadia were assisting in the operation and management of the millionaire party events; the owner of Arcadia intentionally lying to MGCB staff; and falsifying records.
MGCB Executive Director stated, "It’s a shame that charities suffer when locations and suppliers put their interest in profit and volume ahead of the benefit to the charity. The emergency suspension of all charity events at this location is required while we continue our investigation of the location and supplier to determine the extent of the violations and fraudulent activity."
Ironically, the suspension occurred one day before Mr. Kalm testified before the Michigan House Committee on Regulatory Reform regarding Senate Bill 878. The new Rules submitted by MGCB also became effective on May 14, 2014.
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.
