Michigan Gaming Control Board escalates efforts against illicit casino-style machines

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) announced Wednesday that it continued to identify and remove casino-style gaming machines last yearfrom businesses and dismantle illicit gambling operations.

Michigan law broadly prohibits any kind of gambling unless specifically authorized under state law, such as gambling machines operated within licensed casinos. However, gaming machines have become a pressing concern with the potential to undermine the investments made by legitimate gaming establishments, says the regulator. 

these unlawful operations often lack the necessary consumer safeguards that licensed and regulated establishments provide, thus leaving vulnerable individuals susceptible to unfair practices.

MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said: “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.

“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.”

The MGCB says it hopes that by raising awareness about how they are acting on information and removing such machines, citizens and business owners will take note of the consequences of illegal gambling in Michigan. In 2023, 64 Michigan businesses received letters to cease illegal gambling, which led to 167 illegal gambling machines being removed or taken out of operation.

Substantial progress was also made in confiscating and liquidating assets connected to illegal gambling operations. These seizures not only cripple the financial networks sustaining illegal activities, but also serve as a deterrent for those considering engaging in such unlawful practices, says the regulator.

As a result of MGCB investigations, and in partnership with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office, 79 machines used for illegal gambling were seized last year. Nine individuals received criminal gambling convictions and 24 individuals were arraigned on illegal gambling charges.

"The MGCB’s success last year in combating slot-style gambling machines, and holding the individuals involved responsible, serves as a stark reminder that illegal gambling activities will not be tolerated in Michigan," the board said.