The Michigan Gambling Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist letters against five websites, alleging that they have been operating illegally in the Great Lakes State. Specifically, the regulator named the following websites
BoVegas CasinoBUSRCherry Gold CasinoLucky LegendsWager Attack CasinoThe regulator sent these websites notices to fold their operations and ensure that they have withdrawn from the state. In its official statement, the MGCB explained that the aforementioned websites were in breach of several important state statutes, including the Michigan GamingControl and Revenue Act, Michigan’s Lawful Internet Gaming Act, and the Michigan Penal Code, by targeting state residents.
Multiple breaches reported by MGCB in latest enforcement move
Commenting on the latest enforcement development, MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams had this to say:
"These illegal sites undermine the integrity of Michigan’s regulated gaming industry and put players at serious risk. We will not tolerate unlicensed gambling operations that exploit Michigan residents. Our top priority is to protect the public by enforcing the law and shutting down these illegal platforms."
The websites have 14 days to comply with the regulator’s demands. The regulator went a step further to explain what each website was offering, but concluded that in each case, the offer was not legal under state law. BoVegas Casino offered slots and table games without the necessary licensing requirements, the regulator said, raising concerns about player safety.
BUSR, the regulator added, operated both a sportsbook and a casino, but without the necessary consumer protections. Similar concerns were raised against Cherry Gold Casino and Wager Attack Casino, with Lucky Legends accused of using "VIP offers" that were illegal and bonus practices that bypassed state regulation.
Protecting consumers is uppermost on the regulator's mind
In each case, the MGCB argued, there was a significant risk to consumers who engaged at those websites, and Williams said that the regulator was committed to protecting players.
The watchdog remains unfaltering in its determination to uproot illegal gambling, Williams added, wrapping up: "We will continue to take strong action to protect the integrity of Michigan’s gaming industry and to ensure that residents have access to safe, legal, and regulated gambling options."
In February, the MGCB targeted nine other websites in a similar move, with the local regulator intent on uprooting operators that it deems are breaching the local law.
