MGCB takes aim at two Curaçao-based illegal operators
Lucky Tiger Casino and Rich Palms Casino, both run by Alistair Solutions NV, have been warned to cease operating in the state or risk further legal action and potential fines
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist orders to two Curaçao-based operators, Lucky Tiger Casino and Rich Palms Casino, for operating without a license in the state.
Both have been accused by the regulator of conducting illegal gambling activities in the Great Lake State, violating state gaming laws and regulations in the process.
After receiving a tip about the sites, which are both operated by Alistair Solutions NV, the regulator opened an investigation which discovered that several online casino games such as slots, table games, and video poker were all accessible.
Given the games were offered by unlicensed operators without the approval of the MGCB, Lucky Tiger Casino and Rich Palms Casino are both deemed to be in violation of several Michigan gaming laws.
That includes the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, which notes that igaming must only be offered by a licensed operator.
Breaches have also been flagged under the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, which could carry a punishment of a $100,000 fine, imprisonment of up to 10 years, or both.
Both sites are also accused of breaching the Michigan Penal Code, which bans unauthorized gambling that involves “consideration, prize, and chance.”
The regulator has explained that both casinos have 14 days from receipt of the letter to cease operations in Michigan, while failure to adhere to the MGCB’s orders could prompt more legal action and penalties issued.
“The Michigan Gaming Control Board will continue to make it clear that any operator found to be operating unlawfully will face appropriate consequences,” explained executive director Henry Williams.
“This agency has zero tolerance for illegal gambling. We will continue to exercise our regulatory oversight and authority to protect the interests of Michigan citizens and licensed operators and ensure that all online gambling activities available here are compliant with the law.”
The regulator has stressed the need for players in the state to “exercise caution” and to refer to the MGCB’s list of licensed operators before participating.
The latest regulatory action comes just over a week after the MGCB sent cease-and-desist warnings to 10 unlicensed operators, all of which were run by Belize-based firm Apex Dynamics.
Since the start of March, the MGCB has now issued 17 cease-and-desist orders to operators in the jurisdictions of China, Costa Rica, and Curaçao.