With just a couple of weeks remaining until World Cup 2010 kicks off in South Africa, law enforcement agencies all over the world are getting ready for a potentially unprecedented amount of illegal gambling. Recently, police chiefs and other lawmen have been announcing their plans for cracking down on such activities in their home countries.

People’s Daily: HK police to intensify crackdown on illegal football betting, drink driving during World Cup

Tsang Tak-sing, Hong Kong’s secretary for the Home Affairs Bureau, stated this week that Hong Kong police would be intensifying law enforcement against both illegal betting and drink driving while the World Cup is being played. The Organized Crime and Triad Bureau is coordinating the efforts of the various regional agencies involved in the operation.

Hong Kong police have reportedly also been watching Internet gambling activity and are employing “cyber patrols” in an effort to fight illegal football betting online. Law enforcement actions may even take place outside of Hong Kong, should sufficient evidence be gathered linking such non-domestic websites to appealing to Hong Kong citizens.

Tsang also reported that Hong Kong police had arrested seven people in four different raids, with illegal gambling activities involved worth over HK$550,000 (approximately $70,500) in the first three months of this year.

Jakarta Post: Police on lookout for gambling ahead of Cup

Jakarta police authorities have announced their intensification of Internet surveillance in order to stop alleged online gambling, going so far as to monitor Facebook and other social networking sites.

Explained Jakarta police spokesman Sr. Commander Boy Rafli Amar, “We will find out whether virtual poker games played on social networking sites … involve gambling.”

In early May, two websites – IBCbet.com and Casino.SBObet.com – were shut down and their owner arrested on charges of illegally providing casino games and sports betting within Indonesia. The sites were thought to be making some $55,500 per day before the police action.

Bernama: Police To Combat Illegal Betting During World Cup

In Malaysia, local law enforcement agency CID has formed a distinct unit to deal specifically with illegal betting on the World Cup outcome and individual game results. Having just recently legalized gambling in the country, Malaysian police will now be concentrating on the unlicensed operators.

CID Chief Datuk Seri Bakri Zinin stated that even though the Malaysian government had issued gaming licenses to allow legal wagering during the 2010 World Cup, illegal betting syndicates will certainly take the opportunity to rake in profits illegally. “Anyone found betting or accepting such bets will be charged,” said Bakri, “and that also includes online betting.”

Bakri also stated that his taskforce would be looking for various forms of betting, as syndicates would devise many forms of betting in order to attract gamblers. He added that CID officers have already accumulated a list of suspects and probable operating locations in Malaysia.

With just a couple of weeks remaining until World Cup 2010 kicks off in South Africa, law enforcement agencies all over the world are getting ready for a potentially unprecedented amount of illegal gambling. Recently, police chiefs and other lawmen have been announcing their plans for cracking down on such activities in their home countries.

People’s Daily: HK police to intensify crackdown on illegal football betting, drink driving during World Cup

Tsang Tak-sing, Hong Kong’s secretary for the Home Affairs Bureau, stated this week that Hong Kong police would be intensifying law enforcement against both illegal betting and drink driving while the World Cup is being played. The Organized Crime and Triad Bureau is coordinating the efforts of the various regional agencies involved in the operation.

Hong Kong police have reportedly also been watching Internet gambling activity and are employing “cyber patrols” in an effort to fight illegal football betting online. Law enforcement actions may even take place outside of Hong Kong, should sufficient evidence be gathered linking such non-domestic websites to appealing to Hong Kong citizens.

Tsang also reported that Hong Kong police had arrested seven people in four different raids, with illegal gambling activities involved worth over HK$550,000 (approximately $70,500) in the first three months of this year.

Jakarta Post: Police on lookout for gambling ahead of Cup

Jakarta police authorities have announced their intensification of Internet surveillance in order to stop alleged online gambling, going so far as to monitor Facebook and other social networking sites.

Explained Jakarta police spokesman Sr. Commander Boy Rafli Amar, “We will find out whether virtual poker games played on social networking sites … involve gambling.”

In early May, two websites – IBCbet.com and Casino.SBObet.com – were shut down and their owner arrested on charges of illegally providing casino games and sports betting within Indonesia. The sites were thought to be making some $55,500 per day before the police action.

Bernama: Police To Combat Illegal Betting During World Cup

In Malaysia, local law enforcement agency CID has formed a distinct unit to deal specifically with illegal betting on the World Cup outcome and individual game results. Having just recently legalized gambling in the country, Malaysian police will now be concentrating on the unlicensed operators.

CID Chief Datuk Seri Bakri Zinin stated that even though the Malaysian government had issued gaming licenses to allow legal wagering during the 2010 World Cup, illegal betting syndicates will certainly take the opportunity to rake in profits illegally. “Anyone found betting or accepting such bets will be charged,” said Bakri, “and that also includes online betting.”

Bakri also stated that his taskforce would be looking for various forms of betting, as syndicates would devise many forms of betting in order to attract gamblers. He added that CID officers have already accumulated a list of suspects and probable operating locations in Malaysia.

The House Ways and Means Committee will hold an inquiry on the possibility of installing taxes and/or regulations on Internet gambling within the U.S. on Wednesday. The inquiry is being held in light of the upcoming implementation of the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, which essentially puts online gambling into a state of prohibition and is scheduled to go into effect on June 1.

The Hill: Online gambling before Ways and Means on Wednesday

On Wednesday, the House of Representatives’ Ways and Means Committee will explore the taxation of Internet gambling at a hearing in Washington. Emphasized in the inquiry will be certain tax-and-revenue proposals advanced in the past congressional session. All of these directly address the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006 (or UIGEA), implementation of which was delayed six months to June 1, 2010.

A hearing on the subject that was supposed to have taken place before the House Financial Services Committee in April was cancelled due to scheduling purposes, but will be rescheduled at some point. Such a hearing would center on bills entitled the “Reasonable Prudence in Regulation Act” (which would simply delay implementation of UIGEA until June 1, 2011) and the “Internet Gambling Regulation, Consumer Protection and Enforcement Act,” a wide-ranging proposal involving the elimination of UIGEA altogether.

Miami Herald: Is online gambling a win-win?

U.S. House Representatives Barney Frank and Jim McDermott are among those proposing to repeal the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act and replace it with plans that would legalize and tax online gambling.

McDermott’s current proposed bill, which will be among those investigated at a Ways and Means Committee hearing tomorrow, calls for a 8% tax on deposits made at online casinos or poker rooms, of which three-quarters would go to state and tribal governments, and the remainder to the federal government. Congress’ Joint Committee on Taxation estimated the bill could earn up to $72 billion over the next 10 years.

American professional sports leagues are said to be against these bills for fear of expanding wagering on sports events. because they think it will expand wagers placed on their games.

Frank also defends the legalization of Internet gaming on libertarian grounds: “American adults want to be able to do what they want with their own money without the government interfering,” he says.

New York Post: ‘Worse than Subprime’

Although regulating online gambling would appear to be an easy moneymaker for state and federal governments, some are arguing the same people behind the subprime crisis are supporting new gambling law.

Groups such as the Justice Department and the National Association of Attorneys General remain opposed to Rep. Barney Frank’s efforts at refining the Internet gambling industry, theorizing that as much as $20 billion might be wagered in a “surge among gamblers” when casino gaming is truly out of prohibition.

A recently released federal study, the “2009 United States International Gambling Report,” mostly reiterated the findings of the 1999 US National Gambling Impact Study Commission, calling Internet gambling the “worst type of electronic wagering.”

The House Ways and Means Committee will hold an inquiry on the possibility of installing taxes and/or regulations on Internet gambling within the U.S. on Wednesday. The inquiry is being held in light of the upcoming implementation of the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act, which essentially puts online gambling into a state of prohibition and is scheduled to go into effect on June 1.

The Hill: Online gambling before Ways and Means on Wednesday

On Wednesday, the House of Representatives’ Ways and Means Committee will explore the taxation of Internet gambling at a hearing in Washington. Emphasized in the inquiry will be certain tax-and-revenue proposals advanced in the past congressional session. All of these directly address the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006 (or UIGEA), implementation of which was delayed six months to June 1, 2010.

A hearing on the subject that was supposed to have taken place before the House Financial Services Committee in April was cancelled due to scheduling purposes, but will be rescheduled at some point. Such a hearing would center on bills entitled the “Reasonable Prudence in Regulation Act” (which would simply delay implementation of UIGEA until June 1, 2011) and the “Internet Gambling Regulation, Consumer Protection and Enforcement Act,” a wide-ranging proposal involving the elimination of UIGEA altogether.

Miami Herald: Is online gambling a win-win?

U.S. House Representatives Barney Frank and Jim McDermott are among those proposing to repeal the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act and replace it with plans that would legalize and tax online gambling.

McDermott’s current proposed bill, which will be among those investigated at a Ways and Means Committee hearing tomorrow, calls for a 8% tax on deposits made at online casinos or poker rooms, of which three-quarters would go to state and tribal governments, and the remainder to the federal government. Congress’ Joint Committee on Taxation estimated the bill could earn up to $72 billion over the next 10 years.

American professional sports leagues are said to be against these bills for fear of expanding wagering on sports events. because they think it will expand wagers placed on their games.

Frank also defends the legalization of Internet gaming on libertarian grounds: “American adults want to be able to do what they want with their own money without the government interfering,” he says.

New York Post: ‘Worse than Subprime’

Although regulating online gambling would appear to be an easy moneymaker for state and federal governments, some are arguing the same people behind the subprime crisis are supporting new gambling law.

Groups such as the Justice Department and the National Association of Attorneys General remain opposed to Rep. Barney Frank’s efforts at refining the Internet gambling industry, theorizing that as much as $20 billion might be wagered in a “surge among gamblers” when casino gaming is truly out of prohibition.

A recently released federal study, the “2009 United States International Gambling Report,” mostly reiterated the findings of the 1999 US National Gambling Impact Study Commission, calling Internet gambling the “worst type of electronic wagering.”

Despite the fact that the online gaming industry is frowned upon by the United States Government, it’s undeniable that it is popular. Thousands of people enjoy the benefits of the industry and they are safe from punishment, operators however can be preyed on by the governments as is shown in the case of this unfortunate Canadian.

Reuters: Canadian man pleads guilty in web gambling scheme

According to federal authorities in Manhattan, Canadian man pleaded guilty to illegally transmitting bets and wagering information through wires in connection with an alleged $350 million internet gambling scheme.

The office of U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said Douglas Rennick, 34, entered the plea on Tuesday before U.S. District Judge Sidney Stein. Rennick agreed to forfeit $17.1 million, and could face 6 to 12 months in prison under federal sentencing guidelines. Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 15.

Prosecutors accused Rennick of transferring more than $350 million from a Cyprus bank to U.S. accounts to pay U.S. residents who wanted to cash out gambling winnings from 2007 through June 2009.

According to an indictment last August, Rennick told U.S. banks that his accounts would be used for the issuance of rebate and refund checks, payroll processing and other legal purposes. Instead, he used them to launder money for Internet companies that offered poker, blackjack, slot machines and other casino games.

The government originally charged Rennick with conspiring to commit bank fraud, money laundering and engaging in illegal gambling, and could have ordered him to forfeit $565.9 million, court records show.

24 Hrs. Vancouver: Vernon man charged in $350M online gambling scheme

A Vernon, B.C. man charged in a massive online gambling scheme pleaded guilty in New York Tuesday to illegally processing offshore bets by Americans.

Douglas Rennick, 35, was charged Aug. 5, 2009 with bank fraud, conspiracy to launder money and conspiracy to operate illegal gambling. Authorities claimed Rennick transferred $350 million from a Cyprus bank account to various U.S. banks “in order to pay funds to gamblers” in the U.S. “as directed by various offshore Internet gambling companies.”

Rennick admitted in court that he transferred money from online gambling companies to gamblers in New York State. Among the websites was PokerStars. He forfeited $17.1 million and is free on $400,000 bail until his Sept. 15 sentencing.

Courthouse News Service: Huge Recovery From Gambling Operation

Douglas Rennick, a Canadian man, pleaded guilty to processing more than $350 million for online gamblers and funneling their winnings into the United States. He agreed to forfeit nearly $566 million and faces 2 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 when he is sentenced.

Rennick, 34, pleaded guilty to one of the three counts he faced: using the wires to transmit bets and wagering information in interstate commerce.

Rennick set up fictitious corporate accounts in Cyprus to issue checks for rebates, refunds, sponsorship checks and other payments, from 2007 to June 2009. Prosecutors say that he actually used the accounts to receive money from offshore Internet gambling companies and send the money to U.S. residents who wanted to “cash out their gambling winning.”

Despite the fact that the online gaming industry is frowned upon by the United States Government, it’s undeniable that it is popular. Thousands of people enjoy the benefits of the industry and they are safe from punishment, operators however can be preyed on by the governments as is shown in the case of this unfortunate Canadian.

Reuters: Canadian man pleads guilty in web gambling scheme

According to federal authorities in Manhattan, Canadian man pleaded guilty to illegally transmitting bets and wagering information through wires in connection with an alleged $350 million internet gambling scheme.

The office of U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said Douglas Rennick, 34, entered the plea on Tuesday before U.S. District Judge Sidney Stein. Rennick agreed to forfeit $17.1 million, and could face 6 to 12 months in prison under federal sentencing guidelines. Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 15.

Prosecutors accused Rennick of transferring more than $350 million from a Cyprus bank to U.S. accounts to pay U.S. residents who wanted to cash out gambling winnings from 2007 through June 2009.

According to an indictment last August, Rennick told U.S. banks that his accounts would be used for the issuance of rebate and refund checks, payroll processing and other legal purposes. Instead, he used them to launder money for Internet companies that offered poker, blackjack, slot machines and other casino games.

The government originally charged Rennick with conspiring to commit bank fraud, money laundering and engaging in illegal gambling, and could have ordered him to forfeit $565.9 million, court records show.

24 Hrs. Vancouver: Vernon man charged in $350M online gambling scheme

A Vernon, B.C. man charged in a massive online gambling scheme pleaded guilty in New York Tuesday to illegally processing offshore bets by Americans.

Douglas Rennick, 35, was charged Aug. 5, 2009 with bank fraud, conspiracy to launder money and conspiracy to operate illegal gambling. Authorities claimed Rennick transferred $350 million from a Cyprus bank account to various U.S. banks “in order to pay funds to gamblers” in the U.S. “as directed by various offshore Internet gambling companies.”

Rennick admitted in court that he transferred money from online gambling companies to gamblers in New York State. Among the websites was PokerStars. He forfeited $17.1 million and is free on $400,000 bail until his Sept. 15 sentencing.

Courthouse News Service: Huge Recovery From Gambling Operation

Douglas Rennick, a Canadian man, pleaded guilty to processing more than $350 million for online gamblers and funneling their winnings into the United States. He agreed to forfeit nearly $566 million and faces 2 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 when he is sentenced.

Rennick, 34, pleaded guilty to one of the three counts he faced: using the wires to transmit bets and wagering information in interstate commerce.

Rennick set up fictitious corporate accounts in Cyprus to issue checks for rebates, refunds, sponsorship checks and other payments, from 2007 to June 2009. Prosecutors say that he actually used the accounts to receive money from offshore Internet gambling companies and send the money to U.S. residents who wanted to “cash out their gambling winning.”

The gambling industry is one that continues to blossom exponentially. Originally, Las Vegas was considered to be the gambling capital of the world. Macau passed it in popularity after just a few short years and Japan is starting to look like a promising venture for some of the world’s larger gambling operations.

The Street: Las Vegas Sands Bets on Japan

Las Vegas Sands plans on expanding its Macau-based Sands China into Japan, which it predicts could become Asia’s largest gaming market. Sands has already been approach by local gaming firms in Japan.

Gaming is still week in the U.S. and Macau has been the focus of casino operators. In the first quarter Sands Macau, which has three casinos in the Chinese gambling enclave, saw its profit quadruple to $110.5 million from $26.7 million just one year ago.

Revenue at Sands China shot up 24% to $944 million from $761.7 million in the year-ago period. Overall, Macau posted a record 70% surge in gaming revenue in April to $1.76 billion. And it appears the gambling hub could be on track for another record month.

Casino operators aren’t just limiting their Asian expansion to Macau. Last month, Sands opened the first part of its $5.5 billion hotel-casino in Singapore. The company expects the Singapore casino could earn $1 billion annually. MGM has also said that it is looking into other gaming markets, including Vietnam.

Reuters: Sands China bets on Japan; sees strong Q2

Macau-based Sands China, the world’s second-most valuable casino operator, has its sights on expanding into Japan, which it predicts could become Asia’s largest gambling market.

Expanding in Asia beyond Macau has become important for casino operators such as Sands and Wynn Resorts, which worry about Beijing’s erratic travel restrictions on mainland Chinese visiting Macau, the only place in the country where casino gambling is legal.

Japan has long debated legalizing casino gambling and could make a decision soon as it looks to the example of Singapore, which recently opened two major casino resorts. Sands China’s parent Las Vegas Sands opened its $5.5 billion Singapore casino resort, the world’ second-most expensive, late last month.

Japan has made slow progress on allowing casinos, partly due to fears they could trigger social problems.

If Japan moves to legalise casino gambling, the first casino could open by around 2014-15, said Jacobs, who was chief executive of an international management services firm before he joined Las Vegas Sands in March last year.

Channel News Asia: Marina Bay Sands targeting Southeast Asian market

The $5.5 billion Marina Bay Sands integrated resort is betting its chips on the Southeast Asian market. The region is expected to account for over a third of its business in Singapore, according to Sheldon Adelson, the
chairman of its parent company Las Vegas Sands.

He said the company is also considering building integrated resorts in Europe and Japan.
The Marina Bay Sands resort, which was partially opened on Tuesday, April 27, is expected to break even in just 5 years.

Marina Bay Sands will be targeting primary markets like Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and Singapore. Combined, these countries will make up some 40 per cent of Marina Bay Sands’ business (10 per cent each from Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand; and 8 per cent from Vietnam). China will account for about 6 per cent of its business.

Adelson added: “Asia could use 5 or 10 Las Vegases fully built out with 140,000 rooms each. That would give you from 700,000 to 1.4 million rooms for destination resorts for people all over Asia to go to. And in my opinion, you will never saturate the market.

The gambling industry is one that continues to blossom exponentially. Originally, Las Vegas was considered to be the gambling capital of the world. Macau passed it in popularity after just a few short years and Japan is starting to look like a promising venture for some of the world’s larger gambling operations.

The Street: Las Vegas Sands Bets on Japan

Las Vegas Sands plans on expanding its Macau-based Sands China into Japan, which it predicts could become Asia’s largest gaming market. Sands has already been approach by local gaming firms in Japan.

Gaming is still week in the U.S. and Macau has been the focus of casino operators. In the first quarter Sands Macau, which has three casinos in the Chinese gambling enclave, saw its profit quadruple to $110.5 million from $26.7 million just one year ago.

Revenue at Sands China shot up 24% to $944 million from $761.7 million in the year-ago period. Overall, Macau posted a record 70% surge in gaming revenue in April to $1.76 billion. And it appears the gambling hub could be on track for another record month.

Casino operators aren’t just limiting their Asian expansion to Macau. Last month, Sands opened the first part of its $5.5 billion hotel-casino in Singapore. The company expects the Singapore casino could earn $1 billion annually. MGM has also said that it is looking into other gaming markets, including Vietnam.

Reuters: Sands China bets on Japan; sees strong Q2

Macau-based Sands China, the world’s second-most valuable casino operator, has its sights on expanding into Japan, which it predicts could become Asia’s largest gambling market.

Expanding in Asia beyond Macau has become important for casino operators such as Sands and Wynn Resorts, which worry about Beijing’s erratic travel restrictions on mainland Chinese visiting Macau, the only place in the country where casino gambling is legal.

Japan has long debated legalizing casino gambling and could make a decision soon as it looks to the example of Singapore, which recently opened two major casino resorts. Sands China’s parent Las Vegas Sands opened its $5.5 billion Singapore casino resort, the world’ second-most expensive, late last month.

Japan has made slow progress on allowing casinos, partly due to fears they could trigger social problems.

If Japan moves to legalise casino gambling, the first casino could open by around 2014-15, said Jacobs, who was chief executive of an international management services firm before he joined Las Vegas Sands in March last year.

Channel News Asia: Marina Bay Sands targeting Southeast Asian market

The $5.5 billion Marina Bay Sands integrated resort is betting its chips on the Southeast Asian market. The region is expected to account for over a third of its business in Singapore, according to Sheldon Adelson, the
chairman of its parent company Las Vegas Sands.

He said the company is also considering building integrated resorts in Europe and Japan.
The Marina Bay Sands resort, which was partially opened on Tuesday, April 27, is expected to break even in just 5 years.

Marina Bay Sands will be targeting primary markets like Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and Singapore. Combined, these countries will make up some 40 per cent of Marina Bay Sands’ business (10 per cent each from Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand; and 8 per cent from Vietnam). China will account for about 6 per cent of its business.

Adelson added: “Asia could use 5 or 10 Las Vegases fully built out with 140,000 rooms each. That would give you from 700,000 to 1.4 million rooms for destination resorts for people all over Asia to go to. And in my opinion, you will never saturate the market.

Just when we thought it was safe to get back in the water, research shows that the dreaded recession is still pressing down on Americans. Overall, national revenue through gambling dropped over 5%, but progress in some states even during the recession gives a nation hope.

USA Today: Casino gamblers tightened purse strings in recession

Americans have been rolling the dice less as the economy soured. According to the American Gaming Association, revenue from casino gambling fell 5.5% overall last year, with the take falling $1.8 billion from the $32.5 billion of revenue in 2008. Revenue fell in 8 of the 12 states that have casino gambling.

Interestingly, consumers spent more last year gambling at casinos than they did on candy or movie tickets. Spending on lotto tickets hasn’t dropped much. According to La Fleur’s 2010 World Lottery Almanac, states had lottery revenues of $53.1 billion in fiscal year 2009, compared with $53.4 billion in fiscal year 2008.

Six of 12 states with racetrack casinos reported revenue increases, and six reported decreases. Maine had the largest increase, 17.2%, and Iowa took the biggest hit, a 6.7% decline.

Colorado, Indiana, Missouri and Pennsylvania were the only states that posted an increase in casino gambling revenue, according to the association. Pennsylvania saw revenue rise because two casinos opened last year. Kansas, brought in nearly $2 million after its first casino opened

New gaming laws increased some revenue. Colorado relaxed bet limits and increased hours and types of games. Missouri removed loss limits. Casinos in 13 states employed about 328,000 workers last year, compared with about 357,000 in 2008. Casinos contributed $5.6 billion in tax revenue to state and local governments last year, a 1.6% drop from 2008.

Stateline: Gambling slowdown reduces states’ take

The economic slowdown that’s battered the bottom line of states has also reduced their take of gambling taxes, according to a report released Thursday. The American Gaming Association said gaming revenues dropped 5.5 percent across the country last year. State revenues from taxes on gaming dropped 1.6 percent.

New Jersey took the biggest hit, as gaming tax revenues dropped 18.6% between 2008 and 2009. Nevada and Mississippi were also hard-hit, losing 10.4% and 9.4%, respectively.

Four of the 13 states that allow commercial casinos actually did better last year than in the previous year. The report credits voter initiatives in 2008 that legalized more gambling for boosting revenues in both Colorado and Missouri.

Colorado raised its bet limit from $5 to $100; and state gaming taxes increased by 2.6%. Missouri did away with a rule that limited gamblers’ losses to $500 in a two-hour period; its taxes went up 5.9 percent. By far the biggest revenue winner, though, was Pennsylvania, which opened two new casinos in 2009. Its gaming revenues jumped by 21.6%.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: State’s casino numbers buck national trend

Pennsylvania, where new casinos are still opening and legalized slot play is still a novelty, added more than 3,200 gambling-related jobs and yielded big revenue increases in 2009, a year in which casino revenues declined nationally by more than 5%.

Statistics were presented in the American Gaming Association’s annual industry report, which was released Thursday. Pennsylvania’s revenues increased by almost 22%, aided by the 2009 opening of Rivers Casino on the North Shore and the Sands Casino Resort in Bethlehem.

Nationally, casinos took in $30.74 billion in 2009, down nearly $1.8 billion from 2008. It’s the 2nd year of declining casino revenues nationally, and as a result, the number of people employed in the industry dropped by almost 30,000, or 8.1%.

Nevada’s casinos saw 2009 revenues decline by 10.4% from 2008 numbers, while Pennsylvania’s neighbors in Atlantic City, N.J., performed even worse, with a 13.3% decline. Western Pennsylvania is still in the running for 2 more casinos – one, a proposed racetrack casino in Lawrence County; the other, a smaller “resort” casino at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in Fayette County.

Just when we thought it was safe to get back in the water, research shows that the dreaded recession is still pressing down on Americans. Overall, national revenue through gambling dropped over 5%, but progress in some states even during the recession gives a nation hope.

USA Today: Casino gamblers tightened purse strings in recession

Americans have been rolling the dice less as the economy soured. According to the American Gaming Association, revenue from casino gambling fell 5.5% overall last year, with the take falling $1.8 billion from the $32.5 billion of revenue in 2008. Revenue fell in 8 of the 12 states that have casino gambling.

Interestingly, consumers spent more last year gambling at casinos than they did on candy or movie tickets. Spending on lotto tickets hasn’t dropped much. According to La Fleur’s 2010 World Lottery Almanac, states had lottery revenues of $53.1 billion in fiscal year 2009, compared with $53.4 billion in fiscal year 2008.

Six of 12 states with racetrack casinos reported revenue increases, and six reported decreases. Maine had the largest increase, 17.2%, and Iowa took the biggest hit, a 6.7% decline.

Colorado, Indiana, Missouri and Pennsylvania were the only states that posted an increase in casino gambling revenue, according to the association. Pennsylvania saw revenue rise because two casinos opened last year. Kansas, brought in nearly $2 million after its first casino opened

New gaming laws increased some revenue. Colorado relaxed bet limits and increased hours and types of games. Missouri removed loss limits. Casinos in 13 states employed about 328,000 workers last year, compared with about 357,000 in 2008. Casinos contributed $5.6 billion in tax revenue to state and local governments last year, a 1.6% drop from 2008.

Stateline: Gambling slowdown reduces states’ take

The economic slowdown that’s battered the bottom line of states has also reduced their take of gambling taxes, according to a report released Thursday. The American Gaming Association said gaming revenues dropped 5.5 percent across the country last year. State revenues from taxes on gaming dropped 1.6 percent.

New Jersey took the biggest hit, as gaming tax revenues dropped 18.6% between 2008 and 2009. Nevada and Mississippi were also hard-hit, losing 10.4% and 9.4%, respectively.

Four of the 13 states that allow commercial casinos actually did better last year than in the previous year. The report credits voter initiatives in 2008 that legalized more gambling for boosting revenues in both Colorado and Missouri.

Colorado raised its bet limit from $5 to $100; and state gaming taxes increased by 2.6%. Missouri did away with a rule that limited gamblers’ losses to $500 in a two-hour period; its taxes went up 5.9 percent. By far the biggest revenue winner, though, was Pennsylvania, which opened two new casinos in 2009. Its gaming revenues jumped by 21.6%.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: State’s casino numbers buck national trend

Pennsylvania, where new casinos are still opening and legalized slot play is still a novelty, added more than 3,200 gambling-related jobs and yielded big revenue increases in 2009, a year in which casino revenues declined nationally by more than 5%.

Statistics were presented in the American Gaming Association’s annual industry report, which was released Thursday. Pennsylvania’s revenues increased by almost 22%, aided by the 2009 opening of Rivers Casino on the North Shore and the Sands Casino Resort in Bethlehem.

Nationally, casinos took in $30.74 billion in 2009, down nearly $1.8 billion from 2008. It’s the 2nd year of declining casino revenues nationally, and as a result, the number of people employed in the industry dropped by almost 30,000, or 8.1%.

Nevada’s casinos saw 2009 revenues decline by 10.4% from 2008 numbers, while Pennsylvania’s neighbors in Atlantic City, N.J., performed even worse, with a 13.3% decline. Western Pennsylvania is still in the running for 2 more casinos – one, a proposed racetrack casino in Lawrence County; the other, a smaller “resort” casino at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in Fayette County.

Despite the relatively lenient laws regarding gambling in South Africa, there’s still a whole lot of activity going on in the nations black market. A surprising arrest was made this week of a family of four, including the grandmother at 65 years of age.

Sowetan: Granny bust for drugs and racketeering

A family of 4, including a 65- year-old grandmother, was arrested for racketeering, illegal gambling and drug dealing. Police pounced on the elderly woman, her 48-year-old son and his wife of 46 and their 26-year-old son at their Eldorado Park home in the morning yesterday.

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations’s spokesperson, Captain Paul Ramaloko, said: “The SAPS’s West Rand organised crime unit, in conjunction with the crime intelligence, West Rand dog unit and the rapid response (unit), supported by the South African Revenue Service and the Asset Forfeiture Unit arrested the four for racketeering and dealing in drugs.”

The arrests were made after two warrants – one for search and seizure and another for arrest – were obtained from the Protea magistrate’s court .

Though all of the arrested were unemployed, the family members had thousands of rands in their bank accounts. “A further allegation is that they are operating an illegal gambling business in their Eldorado Park home,” said Ramaloko.

Ramaloko said all their assets would be attached soon.

The family members were detained at the Krugersdorp police station and were expected to appear in the Protea magistrate’s court tomorrow.

The Citizen: Family of four arrested for gambling business

According to the authorities, an elderly woman, her two sons and daughter-in-law were arrested on Wednesday for running an illegal gambling business and drug dealing in their Johannesburg home.

The family of four was allegedly part of a syndicate dealing in drugs in the Eldorado Park and Westbury areas, Captain Paul Ramaloko said. They were arrested at their home in Eldorado Park at 10am in a joint operation by police, the South African Revenue Service and the Asset Forfeiture Unit.

The elderly woman, 65, her two sons, 48 and 26 and her daughter-in-law 46 would face charges of drug dealing and racketeering in the Protea Magistrate’s Court on Friday.

The Times Live: Granny and kids on drugs charges

An Eldorado Park granny and three members of her family were arrested for drug dealing yesterday.

The South African Revenue Service and the police’s asset forfeiture unit investigated the family when they discovered large amounts of money in their bank accounts. This was suspicious because the woman, 65, her son, her daughter-in-law and her 26-year-old grandson, are all unemployed.

Hawks spokesman Capt Paul Ramaloko said the family might also have been “operating an illegal gambling business” from their home.

Despite the relatively lenient laws regarding gambling in South Africa, there’s still a whole lot of activity going on in the nations black market. A surprising arrest was made this week of a family of four, including the grandmother at 65 years of age.

Sowetan: Granny bust for drugs and racketeering

A family of 4, including a 65- year-old grandmother, was arrested for racketeering, illegal gambling and drug dealing. Police pounced on the elderly woman, her 48-year-old son and his wife of 46 and their 26-year-old son at their Eldorado Park home in the morning yesterday.

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations’s spokesperson, Captain Paul Ramaloko, said: “The SAPS’s West Rand organised crime unit, in conjunction with the crime intelligence, West Rand dog unit and the rapid response (unit), supported by the South African Revenue Service and the Asset Forfeiture Unit arrested the four for racketeering and dealing in drugs.”

The arrests were made after two warrants – one for search and seizure and another for arrest – were obtained from the Protea magistrate’s court .

Though all of the arrested were unemployed, the family members had thousands of rands in their bank accounts. “A further allegation is that they are operating an illegal gambling business in their Eldorado Park home,” said Ramaloko.

Ramaloko said all their assets would be attached soon.

The family members were detained at the Krugersdorp police station and were expected to appear in the Protea magistrate’s court tomorrow.

The Citizen: Family of four arrested for gambling business

According to the authorities, an elderly woman, her two sons and daughter-in-law were arrested on Wednesday for running an illegal gambling business and drug dealing in their Johannesburg home.

The family of four was allegedly part of a syndicate dealing in drugs in the Eldorado Park and Westbury areas, Captain Paul Ramaloko said. They were arrested at their home in Eldorado Park at 10am in a joint operation by police, the South African Revenue Service and the Asset Forfeiture Unit.

The elderly woman, 65, her two sons, 48 and 26 and her daughter-in-law 46 would face charges of drug dealing and racketeering in the Protea Magistrate’s Court on Friday.

The Times Live: Granny and kids on drugs charges

An Eldorado Park granny and three members of her family were arrested for drug dealing yesterday.

The South African Revenue Service and the police’s asset forfeiture unit investigated the family when they discovered large amounts of money in their bank accounts. This was suspicious because the woman, 65, her son, her daughter-in-law and her 26-year-old grandson, are all unemployed.

Hawks spokesman Capt Paul Ramaloko said the family might also have been “operating an illegal gambling business” from their home.

Police have shut down a pair of illegal internet gambling websites that are said to have been generating a turnover of $50,000 daily. One man, a recruiting agent, was arrested and several pieces of evidence were taken from his home. It is believed that the administrator of the sites fled the country, but police are hoping they will find enough evidence to track him down.

Antara News Indonesia: Police arrest int`l gambling syndicate agent

Jakarta police have arrested an agent of an international online gambling group operating illegally out of Indonesia. Authorities say he was earning as much as Rp15 billion (almost $2 million) per month from the business.

“As an agent the suspect`s turnover reaches Rp500 million a day. The police are still searching his boss abroad,” said Jakarta Metropolitan Police spokesman Senior Commissioner Boy Rafli Amar.

Boy said police have been investigation the gambling operation for the past month. The suspect was involved in operating two unlicensed gambling sites, offering casino games like roulette, baccarat, and poker, along with limited sports betting facilities.

The suspect admitted to working as an agent for the gambling, receiving a monthly salary of Rp7.5 ($1 million). Police are now examining bank statements and other documents in hopes of tracking down the leader of the operation.

During the raid, police confiscated a laptop, a book of financial records, four mobile phones, bank documents, and Rp495 million ($50,000) in cash. The two gambling websites have since been shut down.

Tempo Interactive: Jakarta Police Crack Down Online Gambling Sites

Jakarta police just cracked down two illegal internet gambling websites operating out of Jakarta, offering several different types of gambling and bringing in a daily turnover of around Rp500 million.

A spokesperson for Jakarta Police Senior Commissioner Boy Rafli Amar said in a press conference on Tuesday that two men were arrested at a house in the Villa Kapuk Mas complex, which police have been watching in a stakeout since early April.

One of the men arrested were an agent for the gambling site, and the other was a player. Evidence taken from the house included a laptop, transaction notes, bank, and Rp495 million.

It is believed that the actual administrators of the websites have fled overseas.

The Jakarta Post: Police bust suspects in online betting

Police in Jakarta announced on Tuesday that they had arrested a man suspected of helping to operate two illegal online gambling sites that were generating daily revenues of Rp 500 million (US$55,500).

City Police spokesman Sr. Comr. Boy Rafli Amar said the suspect, who they are calling ‘Benny’, worked as an agent, bringing new customers to gamble at the websites. The sites provided a wide range of online gambling options, including online sports betting, roulette and poker games.

“However, the owner of the sites has apparently managed to escape overseas,” Boy told reporters.

Police have shut down a pair of illegal internet gambling websites that are said to have been generating a turnover of $50,000 daily. One man, a recruiting agent, was arrested and several pieces of evidence were taken from his home. It is believed that the administrator of the sites fled the country, but police are hoping they will find enough evidence to track him down.

Antara News Indonesia: Police arrest int`l gambling syndicate agent

Jakarta police have arrested an agent of an international online gambling group operating illegally out of Indonesia. Authorities say he was earning as much as Rp15 billion (almost $2 million) per month from the business.

“As an agent the suspect`s turnover reaches Rp500 million a day. The police are still searching his boss abroad,” said Jakarta Metropolitan Police spokesman Senior Commissioner Boy Rafli Amar.

Boy said police have been investigation the gambling operation for the past month. The suspect was involved in operating two unlicensed gambling sites, offering casino games like roulette, baccarat, and poker, along with limited sports betting facilities.

The suspect admitted to working as an agent for the gambling, receiving a monthly salary of Rp7.5 ($1 million). Police are now examining bank statements and other documents in hopes of tracking down the leader of the operation.

During the raid, police confiscated a laptop, a book of financial records, four mobile phones, bank documents, and Rp495 million ($50,000) in cash. The two gambling websites have since been shut down.

Tempo Interactive: Jakarta Police Crack Down Online Gambling Sites

Jakarta police just cracked down two illegal internet gambling websites operating out of Jakarta, offering several different types of gambling and bringing in a daily turnover of around Rp500 million.

A spokesperson for Jakarta Police Senior Commissioner Boy Rafli Amar said in a press conference on Tuesday that two men were arrested at a house in the Villa Kapuk Mas complex, which police have been watching in a stakeout since early April.

One of the men arrested were an agent for the gambling site, and the other was a player. Evidence taken from the house included a laptop, transaction notes, bank, and Rp495 million.

It is believed that the actual administrators of the websites have fled overseas.

The Jakarta Post: Police bust suspects in online betting

Police in Jakarta announced on Tuesday that they had arrested a man suspected of helping to operate two illegal online gambling sites that were generating daily revenues of Rp 500 million (US$55,500).

City Police spokesman Sr. Comr. Boy Rafli Amar said the suspect, who they are calling ‘Benny’, worked as an agent, bringing new customers to gamble at the websites. The sites provided a wide range of online gambling options, including online sports betting, roulette and poker games.

“However, the owner of the sites has apparently managed to escape overseas,” Boy told reporters.

Legislation is being pushed all over the United States in favor of all kinds of gambling in order to raise state revenues. Delaware is one state currently in hot pursuit of the industry, but a recent bid for sports gambling was just rejected by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Bloomberg Business Week: Delaware Sports Gambling Bid Rejected by High Court

The U.S. Supreme Court refused to give Delaware broader authority to sponsor sports gambling, and left intact a ruling that allows multi-game bets on National Football League contests while barring other wagers.

The justices rejected an appeal by Delaware Governor Jack Markell, whose state is 1 of just 4 that can offer sports gambling under a 1992 federal law. The rebuff means Delaware can only offer 1 aspect of its sports-wagering plan — parlay betting on 3 or more NFL games. Markell wanted to offer single-game betting as well as wagering on other sports.

Nevada is the only state that allows widespread sports gambling.

The Assosciated Press: High court turns down Delaware over sports betting

The U.S. Supreme Court rejected a Delaware appeal which sought to expand its sports betting lottery beyond professional football on Monday. Justices denied Delaware’s petition for judicial review without comment, and left limits on sports betting in Delaware to multi-game, or parlay, bets on NFL games.

The court declared that the state’s new sports betting lottery must be similar to the betting scheme used in a failed 1976 NFL lottery which allowed Delaware to be 1 of only 4 states to receive exemptions from the federal ban.

Despite losing the appeal, Delaware still maintains a competitive gambling advantage over neighboring states by being the only state east of the Rocky Mountains in which wagering on the NFL is legal.

Reuters: Supreme court rejects Delaware sports betting appeal

The Supreme Court on Monday rejected a Delaware appeal that argued the state should be allowed to offer a new sports betting lottery to generate revenue to help ease its record budget deficit. The justices let stand a 1992 federal ruling by a U.S. appeals court that prohibits Delaware from offering betting on individual games in all major sports, without comment.

The North American professional leagues for baseball, basketball, football and hockey and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) all argued that Delaware’s sports lottery plan violated the 1992 law.

The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, prohibits betting on sports. Exceptions were granted to Delaware, Nevada, Montana and Oregon because they previously ran sports betting operations.

Delaware had expected at least an estimated $17 million in revenues from the sports betting plan in the 2010 fiscal year to help close the state’s budget deficit.

Attorneys for the professional sports leagues and the NCAA told the Supreme Court the appeal should be rejected. They said the estimated $17 million in sports gambling revenue represented a trivial percentage of the state’s $3.1 billion budget.

Legislation is being pushed all over the United States in favor of all kinds of gambling in order to raise state revenues. Delaware is one state currently in hot pursuit of the industry, but a recent bid for sports gambling was just rejected by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Bloomberg Business Week: Delaware Sports Gambling Bid Rejected by High Court

The U.S. Supreme Court refused to give Delaware broader authority to sponsor sports gambling, and left intact a ruling that allows multi-game bets on National Football League contests while barring other wagers.

The justices rejected an appeal by Delaware Governor Jack Markell, whose state is 1 of just 4 that can offer sports gambling under a 1992 federal law. The rebuff means Delaware can only offer 1 aspect of its sports-wagering plan — parlay betting on 3 or more NFL games. Markell wanted to offer single-game betting as well as wagering on other sports.

Nevada is the only state that allows widespread sports gambling.

The Assosciated Press: High court turns down Delaware over sports betting

The U.S. Supreme Court rejected a Delaware appeal which sought to expand its sports betting lottery beyond professional football on Monday. Justices denied Delaware’s petition for judicial review without comment, and left limits on sports betting in Delaware to multi-game, or parlay, bets on NFL games.

The court declared that the state’s new sports betting lottery must be similar to the betting scheme used in a failed 1976 NFL lottery which allowed Delaware to be 1 of only 4 states to receive exemptions from the federal ban.

Despite losing the appeal, Delaware still maintains a competitive gambling advantage over neighboring states by being the only state east of the Rocky Mountains in which wagering on the NFL is legal.

Reuters: Supreme court rejects Delaware sports betting appeal

The Supreme Court on Monday rejected a Delaware appeal that argued the state should be allowed to offer a new sports betting lottery to generate revenue to help ease its record budget deficit. The justices let stand a 1992 federal ruling by a U.S. appeals court that prohibits Delaware from offering betting on individual games in all major sports, without comment.

The North American professional leagues for baseball, basketball, football and hockey and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) all argued that Delaware’s sports lottery plan violated the 1992 law.

The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, prohibits betting on sports. Exceptions were granted to Delaware, Nevada, Montana and Oregon because they previously ran sports betting operations.

Delaware had expected at least an estimated $17 million in revenues from the sports betting plan in the 2010 fiscal year to help close the state’s budget deficit.

Attorneys for the professional sports leagues and the NCAA told the Supreme Court the appeal should be rejected. They said the estimated $17 million in sports gambling revenue represented a trivial percentage of the state’s $3.1 billion budget.

Elections are a necessary part of democratic politics and mean changes that reflect on the wishes of those who are governed. In the great state of Alabama, the upcoming elections may be decided based on whether or not residents would like the controversial gambling industry to be legalized.

ABC News: Political Minute : April 27th

The two Democrats vying for a spot in November’s gubernatorial election are giving voters more information on some hot button issues.

One of the main issues of the election is gambling. At his news conference, Sparks said that as governor, he’d immediately call a special session of the legislature. He’d propose a constitutional amendment to tax, regulate and expand gambling. Davis said he’d prefer to let the people vote on the issue, instead of law-makers.

NBC News: Davis, Sparks show differences for Alabama governor

Democratic candidates for Alabama governor, Artur Davis and Ron Sparks, are drawing sharp differences on the issues of gambling and Alabama’s constitution.

At news conferences Tuesday in Montgomery, Davis said he’s the only candidate in the governor’s race who favors a constitutional convention to rewrite Alabama’s 1901 Constitution. Sparks says he favors doing it article by article in the Legislature.

Sparks says that if elected, he will call a special session immediately after the inauguration to get the Legislature to propose a constitutional amendment to tax, regulate and expand gambling. Davis says he favors a straight up or down referendum on whether voters want electronic bingo.

Al.com: Gambling, constitutional reform divide Artur Davis, Ron Sparks

The Democratic candidates for governor in Alabama, U.S. Rep. Artur Davis and Agriculture Commissioner Ron Sparks, have sharp differences for voters to examine about gambling and Alabama’s constitution.

At news conferences Tuesday in the Capitol complex, Davis said he favors a constitutional convention to rewrite Alabama’s 1901 constitution. If elected, he’d form a commission to recommend ways the Legislature should rewrite the constitution article by article.

Sparks said that if elected, he would immediately get started on legislation to tax, regulate and expand gambling in Alabama. Sparks said he’s open to a referendum either on electronic bingo or on full-fledged casinos like those that can be found in Mississippi.

Davis said he would support the Legislature approving a straight up or down referendum on whether Alabama voters want electronic bingo. He favors a proposed constitutional amendment that would not ensure electronic bingo casinos for anyone if it passes.

Alabama has several electronic bingo casinos now, with some operating and some closed. The Governor’s Task Force on Illegal Gambling is trying to shut them all.

Elections are a necessary part of democratic politics and mean changes that reflect on the wishes of those who are governed. In the great state of Alabama, the upcoming elections may be decided based on whether or not residents would like the controversial gambling industry to be legalized.

ABC News: Political Minute : April 27th

The two Democrats vying for a spot in November’s gubernatorial election are giving voters more information on some hot button issues.

One of the main issues of the election is gambling. At his news conference, Sparks said that as governor, he’d immediately call a special session of the legislature. He’d propose a constitutional amendment to tax, regulate and expand gambling. Davis said he’d prefer to let the people vote on the issue, instead of law-makers.

NBC News: Davis, Sparks show differences for Alabama governor

Democratic candidates for Alabama governor, Artur Davis and Ron Sparks, are drawing sharp differences on the issues of gambling and Alabama’s constitution.

At news conferences Tuesday in Montgomery, Davis said he’s the only candidate in the governor’s race who favors a constitutional convention to rewrite Alabama’s 1901 Constitution. Sparks says he favors doing it article by article in the Legislature.

Sparks says that if elected, he will call a special session immediately after the inauguration to get the Legislature to propose a constitutional amendment to tax, regulate and expand gambling. Davis says he favors a straight up or down referendum on whether voters want electronic bingo.

Al.com: Gambling, constitutional reform divide Artur Davis, Ron Sparks

The Democratic candidates for governor in Alabama, U.S. Rep. Artur Davis and Agriculture Commissioner Ron Sparks, have sharp differences for voters to examine about gambling and Alabama’s constitution.

At news conferences Tuesday in the Capitol complex, Davis said he favors a constitutional convention to rewrite Alabama’s 1901 constitution. If elected, he’d form a commission to recommend ways the Legislature should rewrite the constitution article by article.

Sparks said that if elected, he would immediately get started on legislation to tax, regulate and expand gambling in Alabama. Sparks said he’s open to a referendum either on electronic bingo or on full-fledged casinos like those that can be found in Mississippi.

Davis said he would support the Legislature approving a straight up or down referendum on whether Alabama voters want electronic bingo. He favors a proposed constitutional amendment that would not ensure electronic bingo casinos for anyone if it passes.

Alabama has several electronic bingo casinos now, with some operating and some closed. The Governor’s Task Force on Illegal Gambling is trying to shut them all.

Senator Nick Xenophon was recently alerted to the existence of free iPhone casino games that let people enjoy simulated poker and slots on their mobiles. He believes the games are vulnerable to abuse by children, and wants the federal government to launch an inquiry. The games, he says, should be illegal for children to play.

International Business Times: Parliament junks iPhone gambling applications

Australian senator Nick Xenophon does not want “for fun” gambling applications to become readily available for download on the iPhone. The lawmaker said Australians are already overexposed to gambling.

According to Xenophon, free poker applications available on the iPhone allow, even children, to play for fake money. These games, he says, should not be allowed by the Australian government because they can expose children to gambling at an early age.

“We already have a big enough gambling problem in this country and there’s no doubt this will fuel gambling addiction. Kids can become poker machine experts years before they are legally allowed to set eyes on a real machine.”

“The use of money, albeit fantasy, drills home a false impression that poker machines can be a source of money or income,” said Xenophon. “….This is a training application for kids to lose real money when they turn eighteen.”

Xenophon understands that it would be impossible to ban these applications in Australia, but he still hopes to introduce measures that would make it illegal for Apple to provide free iPhone casino games to children.

Herald Sun: iPhone pokie apps targeted at children, says Senator Nick Xenophon

Free iPhone casino games that allow children to play poker are irresponsible and should be banned, says Senator Nick Xenophon.

Numerous iPhone applications can be downloaded for free, and are identical to machines in found in clubs, pubs and casinos, except they don’t pay real money.

Senator Xenophon said he wasn’t aware that the games existed until he was recently alerted to their availability.

“It’s irresponsible to allow these applications in the hands of children,” Senator Xenophon said. “We already have a big . . . gambling problem in this country and there is no doubt this will fuel gambling addiction.

“Kids can become poker machines experts years before they are legally allowed to set eyes on a real machine.”

“The use of money, albeit fantasy, drills home a false impression that poker machines can be a source of money or income,” Senator Xenophon said.

The Sydney Morning Herald: Ban iPhone gambling apps: Xenophon

Numerous free casino games, some promoted by gaming companies like Harrah’s, can be downloaded and played on the iPhone for free. The games are similar to real money machines found across Australia.

Senator Xenophon says the games are irresponsible, and could too easily fall into the hands of children.

“We already have a big enough gambling problem in this country and there is no doubt this will fuel gambling addiction.

Some of the applications specifically state that they are for 12-year-olds and upwards, but others have no minimum age suggestions.

“Having a recommended age description of 12 is totally inadequate. This is a training application for kids to lose real money when they turn 18,” says Xenophon.

The senator hopes to alert the federal government, and to start an inquiry into the games, outlawing them for children.

“There needs to be a parliamentary inquiry into online gambling laws because otherwise we will see a new wave of problem gamblers as soon as these kids turn 18,” Xenophon said.

“It’s not only promoting poker machines its conditioning people to use them.

Senator Nick Xenophon was recently alerted to the existence of free iPhone casino games that let people enjoy simulated poker and slots on their mobiles. He believes the games are vulnerable to abuse by children, and wants the federal government to launch an inquiry. The games, he says, should be illegal for children to play.

International Business Times: Parliament junks iPhone gambling applications

Australian senator Nick Xenophon does not want “for fun” gambling applications to become readily available for download on the iPhone. The lawmaker said Australians are already overexposed to gambling.

According to Xenophon, free poker applications available on the iPhone allow, even children, to play for fake money. These games, he says, should not be allowed by the Australian government because they can expose children to gambling at an early age.

“We already have a big enough gambling problem in this country and there’s no doubt this will fuel gambling addiction. Kids can become poker machine experts years before they are legally allowed to set eyes on a real machine.”

“The use of money, albeit fantasy, drills home a false impression that poker machines can be a source of money or income,” said Xenophon. “….This is a training application for kids to lose real money when they turn eighteen.”

Xenophon understands that it would be impossible to ban these applications in Australia, but he still hopes to introduce measures that would make it illegal for Apple to provide free iPhone casino games to children.

Herald Sun: iPhone pokie apps targeted at children, says Senator Nick Xenophon

Free iPhone casino games that allow children to play poker are irresponsible and should be banned, says Senator Nick Xenophon.

Numerous iPhone applications can be downloaded for free, and are identical to machines in found in clubs, pubs and casinos, except they don’t pay real money.

Senator Xenophon said he wasn’t aware that the games existed until he was recently alerted to their availability.

“It’s irresponsible to allow these applications in the hands of children,” Senator Xenophon said. “We already have a big . . . gambling problem in this country and there is no doubt this will fuel gambling addiction.

“Kids can become poker machines experts years before they are legally allowed to set eyes on a real machine.”

“The use of money, albeit fantasy, drills home a false impression that poker machines can be a source of money or income,” Senator Xenophon said.

The Sydney Morning Herald: Ban iPhone gambling apps: Xenophon

Numerous free casino games, some promoted by gaming companies like Harrah’s, can be downloaded and played on the iPhone for free. The games are similar to real money machines found across Australia.

Senator Xenophon says the games are irresponsible, and could too easily fall into the hands of children.

“We already have a big enough gambling problem in this country and there is no doubt this will fuel gambling addiction.

Some of the applications specifically state that they are for 12-year-olds and upwards, but others have no minimum age suggestions.

“Having a recommended age description of 12 is totally inadequate. This is a training application for kids to lose real money when they turn 18,” says Xenophon.

The senator hopes to alert the federal government, and to start an inquiry into the games, outlawing them for children.

“There needs to be a parliamentary inquiry into online gambling laws because otherwise we will see a new wave of problem gamblers as soon as these kids turn 18,” Xenophon said.

“It’s not only promoting poker machines its conditioning people to use them.

Australian internet entrepreneur Daniel Tzvetkoff was arrested in Las Vegas on Friday, and is being held on charges of money laundering and gambling conspiracy. Tzvetkoff founded an online payment processing company called Intabill a few years ago, but prosecutors allege that he used shell companies to cover up the source of more than $500 million in online gambling funds. Tzvetkoff faces 75 years in prison if convicted.

News.com.au: Fallen online tycoon Daniel Tzvetkoff faces 75 years jail

Internet entrepreneur Daniel Tzvetkoff is facing 75 years in a US prison after being charged with laundering $584 million. The 27-year-old was placed under arrest in Las Vegas on Friday and has been detained facing a bail hearing.

Ipswich-born Tzvetkoff made a mark for himself in 2008 when he founded the online payment processor Intabill, which helped US gamblers fund their online accounts. Because of his involvement with the company, Tzvetkoff faces charges of money laundering, gambling conspiracy and bank fraud conspiracy.

The US Attorney’s Office alleges that Tzvetkoff helped illegal internet gambling companies to launder about $540 million into offshore accounts. Tzvetkoff’s company duped US banks (which have bans on internet credit card gambling) into believing the gambling transactions were just ordinary transactions.

According to the indictment, Tzvetkoff even created dummy companies British Virgin Islands, complete with fake websites and random names, which were used to hide the source of funds he was processing.

ABC News: Businessmen charged over illegal online gambling transactions

United States authorities are charging former Queensland businessman Daniel Tzvetkoff with four offences relating to illegal online gambling money transactions. The 27-year-old entrepreneur was arrested in Las Vegas on Friday.

An indictment has already been presented to the Federal court in Manhattan, which is charging Tzvetkoff money laundering offences.

The US Justice Department alleges Tzvetkoff processed around $500 million in online transactions between US gamblers and internet gaming websites. The company disguised the financial data so the transactions appeared to be unrelated to gambling.

Tzvetkoff’s Las Vegas-based lawyer Mace Yampolsky says he appeared in court on Friday already, and that this initial apperance will continue on Wednesday.

“Obviously, right now, he’s pleading not guilty. He’s innocent until proven guilty,” Tzvetkoff’s laywer saidsaid.

“At this time, I have not seen any of the government’s proof.”

Reuters: U.S. charges Australian with laundering $500 mln

United States prosecutors arrested an Australian man in Las Vegas on Friday, and are holding him on charges of money laundering, alleging that he helped move funds between gamblers and illegal online gambling websites.

Daniel Tzvetkoff, 27, is being accused in a New York court of processing gambling proceeds and covering up their source, making them appear legal to banks. The operation has been running since early 2008.

Tzvetkoff created dozens of shell companies for use in his scheme, whcih he once wrote was “perfect,” prosecutors say.

Tzvetkoff is being charged on four counts, including bank fraud, money laundering, and conspiracy to operate and finance an illegal gambling business. If convicted on all accounts, he faces up to 75 years in prison.

Australian internet entrepreneur Daniel Tzvetkoff was arrested in Las Vegas on Friday, and is being held on charges of money laundering and gambling conspiracy. Tzvetkoff founded an online payment processing company called Intabill a few years ago, but prosecutors allege that he used shell companies to cover up the source of more than $500 million in online gambling funds. Tzvetkoff faces 75 years in prison if convicted.

News.com.au: Fallen online tycoon Daniel Tzvetkoff faces 75 years jail

Internet entrepreneur Daniel Tzvetkoff is facing 75 years in a US prison after being charged with laundering $584 million. The 27-year-old was placed under arrest in Las Vegas on Friday and has been detained facing a bail hearing.

Ipswich-born Tzvetkoff made a mark for himself in 2008 when he founded the online payment processor Intabill, which helped US gamblers fund their online accounts. Because of his involvement with the company, Tzvetkoff faces charges of money laundering, gambling conspiracy and bank fraud conspiracy.

The US Attorney’s Office alleges that Tzvetkoff helped illegal internet gambling companies to launder about $540 million into offshore accounts. Tzvetkoff’s company duped US banks (which have bans on internet credit card gambling) into believing the gambling transactions were just ordinary transactions.

According to the indictment, Tzvetkoff even created dummy companies British Virgin Islands, complete with fake websites and random names, which were used to hide the source of funds he was processing.

ABC News: Businessmen charged over illegal online gambling transactions

United States authorities are charging former Queensland businessman Daniel Tzvetkoff with four offences relating to illegal online gambling money transactions. The 27-year-old entrepreneur was arrested in Las Vegas on Friday.

An indictment has already been presented to the Federal court in Manhattan, which is charging Tzvetkoff money laundering offences.

The US Justice Department alleges Tzvetkoff processed around $500 million in online transactions between US gamblers and internet gaming websites. The company disguised the financial data so the transactions appeared to be unrelated to gambling.

Tzvetkoff’s Las Vegas-based lawyer Mace Yampolsky says he appeared in court on Friday already, and that this initial apperance will continue on Wednesday.

“Obviously, right now, he’s pleading not guilty. He’s innocent until proven guilty,” Tzvetkoff’s laywer saidsaid.

“At this time, I have not seen any of the government’s proof.”

Reuters: U.S. charges Australian with laundering $500 mln

United States prosecutors arrested an Australian man in Las Vegas on Friday, and are holding him on charges of money laundering, alleging that he helped move funds between gamblers and illegal online gambling websites.

Daniel Tzvetkoff, 27, is being accused in a New York court of processing gambling proceeds and covering up their source, making them appear legal to banks. The operation has been running since early 2008.

Tzvetkoff created dozens of shell companies for use in his scheme, whcih he once wrote was “perfect,” prosecutors say.

Tzvetkoff is being charged on four counts, including bank fraud, money laundering, and conspiracy to operate and finance an illegal gambling business. If convicted on all accounts, he faces up to 75 years in prison.

A massive online sports betting operation operating illegally out of New York, with ties as far afield as Costa Rica, has been taken down. A two-year investigation culminated last week in 38 arrests cross the US. Those involved are ring charged with money laundering, promoting gambling and conspiracy.

Fox News: Dozens Arrested in Sweep of Alleged $178M Online Gambling Ring

Bookmakers running a pair of online sportsbooks in the US accepted nearly $178 million in bets during the past three years said prosecutors on Wednesday after arresting 38 on corruption charges.

Those arrested are suspected money collectors, agents and bookies from Nevada, Louisiana, Florida, New York and Arizona. The arrests were the culmination of a three-year investigation led by the organized crime division of the New York Police Department.

Among those arrested are three New York City employees: a firefighter, a sanitation worker and a highway repairman. Charges include money laundering, promoting gambling and conspiracy.

The suspects operated two nationwide gambling rings that utilized sports betting websites filtered through Costa Rica. Millions of dollars in cash and property were seized after more than a dozen search warrants were executed five US states. All suspects are currently awaiting arraignment.

United Press International: NYC fireman nabbed in $178M gambling ring

A New York City firefighter is among three city workers being charged with operating an illegal sports-betting ring that made $178 million in three years.

Firefighter Matthew Fopeano and highway repairman Michael Labetti allegedly paid out winnings, collected gambling losses, and solicited new customers. Robert Ackrish, a NYC sanitation worker, allegedly ran a separate sports betting operation that handled $24 million in wagers.

These men are among 38 people being charged with operating two “highly sophisticated illegal sports gambling enterprises” in New York City, Nevada and Costa Rica. The rings took nearly $178 million in wagers over 32 months basketball, football, baseball and hockey events, the district attorney said.

A spokesman for the New York Fire Department says that Fopeano, an 8-year veteran who allegedly made used a marked fire department vehicle for collecting sportsbook monies, was suspended without pay and faces termination.

Boston Herald: 38 indicted in NYC in sports gambling rings

New York prosecutors have indicted 38 people in connection with two illegal sports betting rings that allegedly spanned from Arizona to New York and Costa Rica and made $178 million.

Queens District Attorney Richard Brown said that the bookies used websites to collect wagers on professional and college events including basketball, football, baseball and hockey.

Lead by the New York Police Department’s organized crime division, investigators arrested the accused on charges enterprise corruption. Three of the men arrested are New York City employees: a sanitation worker, a firefighter, and a highway repairman.

A massive online sports betting operation operating illegally out of New York, with ties as far afield as Costa Rica, has been taken down. A two-year investigation culminated last week in 38 arrests cross the US. Those involved are ring charged with money laundering, promoting gambling and conspiracy.

Fox News: Dozens Arrested in Sweep of Alleged $178M Online Gambling Ring

Bookmakers running a pair of online sportsbooks in the US accepted nearly $178 million in bets during the past three years said prosecutors on Wednesday after arresting 38 on corruption charges.

Those arrested are suspected money collectors, agents and bookies from Nevada, Louisiana, Florida, New York and Arizona. The arrests were the culmination of a three-year investigation led by the organized crime division of the New York Police Department.

Among those arrested are three New York City employees: a firefighter, a sanitation worker and a highway repairman. Charges include money laundering, promoting gambling and conspiracy.

The suspects operated two nationwide gambling rings that utilized sports betting websites filtered through Costa Rica. Millions of dollars in cash and property were seized after more than a dozen search warrants were executed five US states. All suspects are currently awaiting arraignment.

United Press International: NYC fireman nabbed in $178M gambling ring

A New York City firefighter is among three city workers being charged with operating an illegal sports-betting ring that made $178 million in three years.

Firefighter Matthew Fopeano and highway repairman Michael Labetti allegedly paid out winnings, collected gambling losses, and solicited new customers. Robert Ackrish, a NYC sanitation worker, allegedly ran a separate sports betting operation that handled $24 million in wagers.

These men are among 38 people being charged with operating two “highly sophisticated illegal sports gambling enterprises” in New York City, Nevada and Costa Rica. The rings took nearly $178 million in wagers over 32 months basketball, football, baseball and hockey events, the district attorney said.

A spokesman for the New York Fire Department says that Fopeano, an 8-year veteran who allegedly made used a marked fire department vehicle for collecting sportsbook monies, was suspended without pay and faces termination.

Boston Herald: 38 indicted in NYC in sports gambling rings

New York prosecutors have indicted 38 people in connection with two illegal sports betting rings that allegedly spanned from Arizona to New York and Costa Rica and made $178 million.

Queens District Attorney Richard Brown said that the bookies used websites to collect wagers on professional and college events including basketball, football, baseball and hockey.

Lead by the New York Police Department’s organized crime division, investigators arrested the accused on charges enterprise corruption. Three of the men arrested are New York City employees: a sanitation worker, a firefighter, and a highway repairman.

New legislation is being passed through the British parlament at record speed, among them a bill that has the power to bring much of the internet down to its knees within the United Kingdom. Whether or not the bill will affect the online gambling industry is unknown, but nevertheless, a possibility.

Cnet UK: Digital Economy Bill: Nine things you can’t do any more

The Digital Economy Bill has clauses that could lead to some pretty horrible outcomes. The bill sprinted from Commons to Lords almost without a pause for breath before getting the nod from Her Maj. Until Ofcom hammers out the details outlined in the bill, it’s impossible to say how we’ll be affected. Possibilities:

Watch copyrighted content
The bill aims to make it more difficult to access copyrighted content by blocking Web sites built around sharing such material. Sanctions can be applied to users if they use them.

Download from us
The bill states that download websites can be blocked if they providing copyright infringing tools.

Use WikiLeaks
According to the bill, the government can block sites deemed ‘likely to’ infringe copyright. How ‘likely to’ will be defined will determined which sites can be blocked.

Use free open Wi-Fi
Locations that provide Wi-Fi may think twice about doing so as they will be held accountable for internet traffic from their servers.

Watch YouTube
YouTube may come under fire as copyrighted material can be found on the site.

Google stuff
As Google is often used to find downloads, it too may be threatened.

The New York Times: U.K. Approves Crackdown on Internet Pirates

The British Parliament has approved plans to crack down on digital media piracy by authorizing the suspension of repeat offenders’ Internet connections.

Both the House of Commons and the House of Lords approved the bill after heavy lobbying from the music and movie industries. The anti-piracy plan is part of a broader bill aimed at stimulating the digital economy in Britain.

The government’s anti-piracy plans were modified in the final rounds of negotiations over the bill. Under previous proposals, the content industries could have gone to court to seek injunctions requiring Internet service providers to block access to Web sites that foster piracy. Similar clauses were included elsewhere in the bill.

The Guardian: Digital economy bill rushed through wash-up in late night session

The UK government forced the Digital Economy Bill through parliament with the aid of the Conservative party, attaining a crucial third reading – which means it will get royal assent and become law – after just 2 hours of debate in the Commons.

Despite opposition from the Liberal Democrats and a group of Labour MPs who spoke against measures contained in the bill, the government easily won 2 votes to determine the content of the bill and its passage through the committee stage. The vote was in the government’s favour, which it won by 189 votes to 47.

Earlier the government removed its proposed clause 18, which could have given it sweeping powers to block sites, but replaced it with an amendment to clause 8 of the bill.

Liberal Democrat MP, John Hemming, protested that this could mean the blocking of whistleblower sites. Stephen Timms for the government said that it would not want to see the clause used to restrict freedom of speech.

New legislation is being passed through the British parlament at record speed, among them a bill that has the power to bring much of the internet down to its knees within the United Kingdom. Whether or not the bill will affect the online gambling industry is unknown, but nevertheless, a possibility.

Cnet UK: Digital Economy Bill: Nine things you can’t do any more

The Digital Economy Bill has clauses that could lead to some pretty horrible outcomes. The bill sprinted from Commons to Lords almost without a pause for breath before getting the nod from Her Maj. Until Ofcom hammers out the details outlined in the bill, it’s impossible to say how we’ll be affected. Possibilities:

Watch copyrighted content
The bill aims to make it more difficult to access copyrighted content by blocking Web sites built around sharing such material. Sanctions can be applied to users if they use them.

Download from us
The bill states that download websites can be blocked if they providing copyright infringing tools.

Use WikiLeaks
According to the bill, the government can block sites deemed ‘likely to’ infringe copyright. How ‘likely to’ will be defined will determined which sites can be blocked.

Use free open Wi-Fi
Locations that provide Wi-Fi may think twice about doing so as they will be held accountable for internet traffic from their servers.

Watch YouTube
YouTube may come under fire as copyrighted material can be found on the site.

Google stuff
As Google is often used to find downloads, it too may be threatened.

The New York Times: U.K. Approves Crackdown on Internet Pirates

The British Parliament has approved plans to crack down on digital media piracy by authorizing the suspension of repeat offenders’ Internet connections.

Both the House of Commons and the House of Lords approved the bill after heavy lobbying from the music and movie industries. The anti-piracy plan is part of a broader bill aimed at stimulating the digital economy in Britain.

The government’s anti-piracy plans were modified in the final rounds of negotiations over the bill. Under previous proposals, the content industries could have gone to court to seek injunctions requiring Internet service providers to block access to Web sites that foster piracy. Similar clauses were included elsewhere in the bill.

The Guardian: Digital economy bill rushed through wash-up in late night session

The UK government forced the Digital Economy Bill through parliament with the aid of the Conservative party, attaining a crucial third reading – which means it will get royal assent and become law – after just 2 hours of debate in the Commons.

Despite opposition from the Liberal Democrats and a group of Labour MPs who spoke against measures contained in the bill, the government easily won 2 votes to determine the content of the bill and its passage through the committee stage. The vote was in the government’s favour, which it won by 189 votes to 47.

Earlier the government removed its proposed clause 18, which could have given it sweeping powers to block sites, but replaced it with an amendment to clause 8 of the bill.

Liberal Democrat MP, John Hemming, protested that this could mean the blocking of whistleblower sites. Stephen Timms for the government said that it would not want to see the clause used to restrict freedom of speech.

Faced with a growing budget deficit and rising unemployment rates, the great state of New Hampshire has joined the other states on the long list of those considering online gambling as a promising answer to financial problems.

Nashua Telegraph: Gambling would bring much needed jobs

There’s been a lot of focus on the review of SB489, a bill to expand gambling in addition to adding slot machines and a resort casino in New Hampshire. Many New Hampshire workers are looking for the opportunity to show support for the bill, tell their stories and share the many positive outcomes that would result from this legislation being passed.

The construction industry is in shambles with an unemployment rate of 30%. Projects like those proposed in the bill would provide work for many throughout the state. A lot has been said about the social costs that the bill could create within our state and how it could impact lives. Missing from the debate are the social costs of prolonged unemployment.

This is why we must act now to support and implement expanded gambling. Passage would mean construction work unseen since the building of Seabrook Station, when over 70% of the industry had health and retirement benefits.

Thousands of construction workers could piece their lives back together, not with handouts from the state but with a good quality job. Workers look to their state elected leaders to support this extremely vital, job-creation bill.

The Boston Globe: NH gov considers legalizing online gambling

Though he opposes slot machines and casino-style gambling, Gov. John Lynch of New Hampshire may support legalization on internet gambling in order to close a growing budget deficit. The governor will unveil his plan for the state next week, and legalizing online gaming is among the ideas he’s considering.

The House is debating a Senate-passed bill that allows up to 17,000 slots and casino-style games at six locations throughout the state. Lynch opposes the bill because he said it fails to prevent the proliferation of gambling.

Arguments against the new bill claim that it would proliferate gambling and wouldn’t create jobs. A lawyer for the Hudson project, however, estimates it would create 3,800 jobs, including trick-down positions at restaurants and other businesses.

Bloomberg Business Week: NH legislators propose changes to gambling bill

New Hampshire legislators in the House are supporting a gambling bill which would cut the number of slots from the proposed 17,000 to 9,750 and offer them at five places instead of six. The House is considering a Senate-passed bill to expand gambling.

Under the proposed House changes, competing proposals for casinos would vie before a three-person tribunal to secure one site each in central and northern New Hampshire. The change is seen as a response to the owners of the New Hampshire Motor Speedway, who said they were left out of the original bill. Another proposed change would repeal the state’s new 10 percent tax on gambling winnings.

Faced with a growing budget deficit and rising unemployment rates, the great state of New Hampshire has joined the other states on the long list of those considering online gambling as a promising answer to financial problems.

Nashua Telegraph: Gambling would bring much needed jobs

There’s been a lot of focus on the review of SB489, a bill to expand gambling in addition to adding slot machines and a resort casino in New Hampshire. Many New Hampshire workers are looking for the opportunity to show support for the bill, tell their stories and share the many positive outcomes that would result from this legislation being passed.

The construction industry is in shambles with an unemployment rate of 30%. Projects like those proposed in the bill would provide work for many throughout the state. A lot has been said about the social costs that the bill could create within our state and how it could impact lives. Missing from the debate are the social costs of prolonged unemployment.

This is why we must act now to support and implement expanded gambling. Passage would mean construction work unseen since the building of Seabrook Station, when over 70% of the industry had health and retirement benefits.

Thousands of construction workers could piece their lives back together, not with handouts from the state but with a good quality job. Workers look to their state elected leaders to support this extremely vital, job-creation bill.

The Boston Globe: NH gov considers legalizing online gambling

Though he opposes slot machines and casino-style gambling, Gov. John Lynch of New Hampshire may support legalization on internet gambling in order to close a growing budget deficit. The governor will unveil his plan for the state next week, and legalizing online gaming is among the ideas he’s considering.

The House is debating a Senate-passed bill that allows up to 17,000 slots and casino-style games at six locations throughout the state. Lynch opposes the bill because he said it fails to prevent the proliferation of gambling.

Arguments against the new bill claim that it would proliferate gambling and wouldn’t create jobs. A lawyer for the Hudson project, however, estimates it would create 3,800 jobs, including trick-down positions at restaurants and other businesses.

Bloomberg Business Week: NH legislators propose changes to gambling bill

New Hampshire legislators in the House are supporting a gambling bill which would cut the number of slots from the proposed 17,000 to 9,750 and offer them at five places instead of six. The House is considering a Senate-passed bill to expand gambling.

Under the proposed House changes, competing proposals for casinos would vie before a three-person tribunal to secure one site each in central and northern New Hampshire. The change is seen as a response to the owners of the New Hampshire Motor Speedway, who said they were left out of the original bill. Another proposed change would repeal the state’s new 10 percent tax on gambling winnings.

Joe Mastronardo, the son-in-law of the late mayor of Philadelphia has been arrested together with his brother John and charged with conspiracy, gambling and running a corrupt organization, due to an illegal bookkeeping operation that they ran. Over $1 million was dug up by law enforcement in Mastronardo’s lawn in a recent raid.

Fox News: Over $1 Million Found In PVC Pipes

More than $1 million cash was recently found buried in the yard of Joe Mastronardo, son-in-law of late Philadelphia mayor Frank Rizzo. County investigators and the FBI spent all Wednesday digging up Mastronardo’s the backyard in Abington looking for the hidden cash. Montgomery County DA Risa Ferman and the FBI moved to freeze bank accounts in Tennessee, Pennsylvania and Florida.

Mastronardo and his brother were arrested in a federal bookmaking scheme in 2006. At that point, the brothers agreed to forfeit about $2.7 million dollars as part of a plea agreement.

John and Joseph Mastronardo are being held on $1 million bail each. They’ve been charged with conspiracy, gambling and running a corrupt organization. Preliminary hearings and bail hearings are set for next week.

ABC News: Pa. brothers charged with running gambling ring

This is the second time in 4 years that Montgomery County authorities have arrested the Mastronardo brothers for running a sports betting operation.

Court documents indicate that most of the evidence that lead to the arrests was gathered on wiretaps, including a conversation in which Joseph Mastronardo discussed NCAA March Madness tournament. Looking for cash taken in from sports bets, and they found more than a million dollars.

In Mastronado’s backyard and shrubbery, 4 PVC pipe tubes full of cash and capped at both ends were unearthed. Investigators executed over 46 search warrants yesterday at other homes owned by the Mastronardos. They also seized bank accounts in Florida, Tennessee and offshore.

This is the fourth time the Mastronardo brothers have been arrested on gambling charges since 1983. They forfeited close to $3-million and received probation 4 years ago. Now, they are being held without bail for violating the terms of their probation and are looking at long jail terms.

CBS News: Abington Yard Searched In Money Laundering Probe

The FBI, along with county investigators, dug up the yard of a Montgomery County mansion Wednesday as part of an alleged money laundering investigation. Eyewitnesses in the neighborhood of million dollar homes claim that they saw the FBI uncover what appeared to be bags of cash.

Sources also told Eyewitness News that the home belongs to Joe Mastronardo, who is the son-in-law of the late Philadelphia Mayor Frank Rizzo. Mastronardo is currently in the Montgomery County Correctional Facility for violating probation. He was convicted of bookmaking in 2006. He is being held on $1 million bail.

Joe Mastronardo, the son-in-law of the late mayor of Philadelphia has been arrested together with his brother John and charged with conspiracy, gambling and running a corrupt organization, due to an illegal bookkeeping operation that they ran. Over $1 million was dug up by law enforcement in Mastronardo’s lawn in a recent raid.

Fox News: Over $1 Million Found In PVC Pipes

More than $1 million cash was recently found buried in the yard of Joe Mastronardo, son-in-law of late Philadelphia mayor Frank Rizzo. County investigators and the FBI spent all Wednesday digging up Mastronardo’s the backyard in Abington looking for the hidden cash. Montgomery County DA Risa Ferman and the FBI moved to freeze bank accounts in Tennessee, Pennsylvania and Florida.

Mastronardo and his brother were arrested in a federal bookmaking scheme in 2006. At that point, the brothers agreed to forfeit about $2.7 million dollars as part of a plea agreement.

John and Joseph Mastronardo are being held on $1 million bail each. They’ve been charged with conspiracy, gambling and running a corrupt organization. Preliminary hearings and bail hearings are set for next week.

ABC News: Pa. brothers charged with running gambling ring

This is the second time in 4 years that Montgomery County authorities have arrested the Mastronardo brothers for running a sports betting operation.

Court documents indicate that most of the evidence that lead to the arrests was gathered on wiretaps, including a conversation in which Joseph Mastronardo discussed NCAA March Madness tournament. Looking for cash taken in from sports bets, and they found more than a million dollars.

In Mastronado’s backyard and shrubbery, 4 PVC pipe tubes full of cash and capped at both ends were unearthed. Investigators executed over 46 search warrants yesterday at other homes owned by the Mastronardos. They also seized bank accounts in Florida, Tennessee and offshore.

This is the fourth time the Mastronardo brothers have been arrested on gambling charges since 1983. They forfeited close to $3-million and received probation 4 years ago. Now, they are being held without bail for violating the terms of their probation and are looking at long jail terms.

CBS News: Abington Yard Searched In Money Laundering Probe

The FBI, along with county investigators, dug up the yard of a Montgomery County mansion Wednesday as part of an alleged money laundering investigation. Eyewitnesses in the neighborhood of million dollar homes claim that they saw the FBI uncover what appeared to be bags of cash.

Sources also told Eyewitness News that the home belongs to Joe Mastronardo, who is the son-in-law of the late Philadelphia Mayor Frank Rizzo. Mastronardo is currently in the Montgomery County Correctional Facility for violating probation. He was convicted of bookmaking in 2006. He is being held on $1 million bail.

After months of both debate and action with accents of public discontent, a bill regarding the current bingo situation has finally made a bit of headway in the Alabama legislative system. The bill was passed, by the skin of its teeth in the state Senate on Tuesday.

Andalusia State-News: Bingo narrowly passes Senate

Late yesterday, the Alabama Senate passed a bingo bill with a vote of 21-13. The bill was sponsored by Sen. Roger Bedford, D-Russellville, and would allow Alabama residents to decide if they want to tax and regulate electronic bingo in November.

This bill would create a gaming commission and tax gambling in the state by at least 25%. Bedford said that this rate is already 3 times higher than in New Jersey and Nevada, but could be increased.

The 5 members of the gaming commission couldn’t work for gambling interests for 5 years before or after serving on the commission; and gambling interests couldn’t contribute to the campaigns of the elected officials who appoint commission members. The commission would have subpoena power and would be subject to the Alabama Ethics Commission.

If the Legislature and voters approve the bill, lawmakers will have a special session next year and determine more of the details. The measure must also pass the Alabama House of Representatives.

CBS News: Senate Approves Bingo Bill

A once thought dead bingo bill has new life in what the bill’s author calls a shorter, simpler form. In a surprise move on Tuesday, Senate Bill 330 was re-introduced by Senator Roger Bedford. Senate Republicans tried to defeat the measure but failed and it passed with 21 votes to 13.

The bill now needs to be passed in the state House. There are still 3 weeks left in the session, and bingo supporters say they’ll have plenty of time to get it passed so Alabama residents will get the chance to vote on it in November.

The Associated Press: Alabama Senate Passes Electronic Bingo Bill

Alabama voters may get to vote in referendum on whether they want electronic gaming in the state after the senate passed a proposed constitutional amendment on Tuesday night.

The senate mustered 21 votes, just enough to pass the bill, which protects games from raids, at the same time as taxing and regulating them. Before this bill is subjected to referendum, it must be passed in the state’s House of Representatives.

In the meantime, the Alabama Supreme Court has left a judge’s order in place which blocks the Governor’s Anti-Gambling Task Force from raiding VictoryLand in Macon County.

After months of both debate and action with accents of public discontent, a bill regarding the current bingo situation has finally made a bit of headway in the Alabama legislative system. The bill was passed, by the skin of its teeth in the state Senate on Tuesday.

Andalusia State-News: Bingo narrowly passes Senate

Late yesterday, the Alabama Senate passed a bingo bill with a vote of 21-13. The bill was sponsored by Sen. Roger Bedford, D-Russellville, and would allow Alabama residents to decide if they want to tax and regulate electronic bingo in November.

This bill would create a gaming commission and tax gambling in the state by at least 25%. Bedford said that this rate is already 3 times higher than in New Jersey and Nevada, but could be increased.

The 5 members of the gaming commission couldn’t work for gambling interests for 5 years before or after serving on the commission; and gambling interests couldn’t contribute to the campaigns of the elected officials who appoint commission members. The commission would have subpoena power and would be subject to the Alabama Ethics Commission.

If the Legislature and voters approve the bill, lawmakers will have a special session next year and determine more of the details. The measure must also pass the Alabama House of Representatives.

CBS News: Senate Approves Bingo Bill

A once thought dead bingo bill has new life in what the bill’s author calls a shorter, simpler form. In a surprise move on Tuesday, Senate Bill 330 was re-introduced by Senator Roger Bedford. Senate Republicans tried to defeat the measure but failed and it passed with 21 votes to 13.

The bill now needs to be passed in the state House. There are still 3 weeks left in the session, and bingo supporters say they’ll have plenty of time to get it passed so Alabama residents will get the chance to vote on it in November.

The Associated Press: Alabama Senate Passes Electronic Bingo Bill

Alabama voters may get to vote in referendum on whether they want electronic gaming in the state after the senate passed a proposed constitutional amendment on Tuesday night.

The senate mustered 21 votes, just enough to pass the bill, which protects games from raids, at the same time as taxing and regulating them. Before this bill is subjected to referendum, it must be passed in the state’s House of Representatives.

In the meantime, the Alabama Supreme Court has left a judge’s order in place which blocks the Governor’s Anti-Gambling Task Force from raiding VictoryLand in Macon County.

Alabama state governor Bob Riley has become famous for his Task Force on Illegal Gambling, which he sends around to raid what he calls “illegal” electronic bingo halls. In a surprising move, Attorney General Troy King has just taken control of the task force, insisting that the raids stop until the legal status of the bingo machines is determined by the courts. The state of Alabama has already paid half a million dollars in legal fees supporting the Task Force in the 18 lawsuits that have been filed against it. Task Force Commander John Tyson, says King does not have the authority to take over or stop raids.

Bloomberg Business Week: Alabama AG to take over antigambling task force

Two casinos in the US state of Alabama intend to reopen next week after Attorney General Troy King announced that he is taking over the Governor’s Task Force on Illegal Gambling, King intends to put an end to the ongoing raids of electronic bingo casinos until a final court ruling regarding the legality of machines.

The two casinos, Country Crossing at Dothan and White Hall Entertainment Center in Lowndes County, both closed down a month ago to avoid being raided by the governor’s task force.

The legal battle over electronic bingo in Alabama’s boils down to a simple disagreement. Alabama Governor Bob Riley and Task Force Commander Tyson argue that electronic bingo machines are illegal slot machines, while King insists that the final determination must be made by the court.

King intends to use his authority as Alabama’s top law officer to take control, remove Tyson from power, and secure all evidence collected by the Task Force. King will also put an end to the pre-dawn raids of casinos that the Task Force has been conducting – without search warrants.

Task Force Commander Tyson, who is also a district attorney in Mobile, says King does not have the authority to take over or stop raids.

“If the attorney general gets his way, then the only thing that will be assured is that the illegal slot machines casinos will get to stay open for months and months as the gambling bosses drag out the litigation that the attorney general says he is going to bring,” Tyson said.

Fox News Alabama: Tyson Fires Back at Troy King over Gambling

John Tyson said yesterday that he has no intentions of stepping down from his position as the Commander of Alabama Governor Riley’s anti-gambling task force.

Tyson he argues that the issue is greater than just a battle against illegal gambling, noting that casinos have a tendency to breed corruption.

“I fought corruption because it’s the right thing to do and yeah, I’ve taken some heat for it,” Tyson said. “Governor Riley and I talked about the price of fighting corruption. We both agree, it’s worth the heat.”

Tyson also said he would comply with King’s demands turn over the evidence the Task Force has collected.

When asked if he intends to execute raids on any casinos that dare to re-open in light of King’s announcement, Tyson replied: “The Governor of the state of Alabama as recently as this morning again says ‘John, you’re the commander of the task force on illegal gambling, go get ’em, ‘. I will see to it to see that the laws of the state are enforced. I will not disclose how we might choose to do that.”

Mongomery Advisor: Several lawsuits have been filed against the task force

The state of Alabama has paid $536,115 in legal expenses since December 2008 to support Governor Bob Riley’s Task Force on Illegal Gambling.

The state has also has seized about $1.3 million during raids on electronic bingo parlors. After each of the raids or in to stop anticipated raids, organizations have filed lawsuits against the Task Force, its Commander John Tyson., Governor Riley, and other officials.

According to the Governor’s office, the Task Force is currently involved in 18 lawsuits related to gambling. The court battles involve operators trying to get back gambling machines and monies seized during the raids. Some lawsuits even involve attempts by bingo establishments to file restraining orders against the Task Force to prevent future raids.

Alabama state governor Bob Riley has become famous for his Task Force on Illegal Gambling, which he sends around to raid what he calls “illegal” electronic bingo halls. In a surprising move, Attorney General Troy King has just taken control of the task force, insisting that the raids stop until the legal status of the bingo machines is determined by the courts. The state of Alabama has already paid half a million dollars in legal fees supporting the Task Force in the 18 lawsuits that have been filed against it. Task Force Commander John Tyson, says King does not have the authority to take over or stop raids.

Bloomberg Business Week: Alabama AG to take over antigambling task force

Two casinos in the US state of Alabama intend to reopen next week after Attorney General Troy King announced that he is taking over the Governor’s Task Force on Illegal Gambling, King intends to put an end to the ongoing raids of electronic bingo casinos until a final court ruling regarding the legality of machines.

The two casinos, Country Crossing at Dothan and White Hall Entertainment Center in Lowndes County, both closed down a month ago to avoid being raided by the governor’s task force.

The legal battle over electronic bingo in Alabama’s boils down to a simple disagreement. Alabama Governor Bob Riley and Task Force Commander Tyson argue that electronic bingo machines are illegal slot machines, while King insists that the final determination must be made by the court.

King intends to use his authority as Alabama’s top law officer to take control, remove Tyson from power, and secure all evidence collected by the Task Force. King will also put an end to the pre-dawn raids of casinos that the Task Force has been conducting – without search warrants.

Task Force Commander Tyson, who is also a district attorney in Mobile, says King does not have the authority to take over or stop raids.

“If the attorney general gets his way, then the only thing that will be assured is that the illegal slot machines casinos will get to stay open for months and months as the gambling bosses drag out the litigation that the attorney general says he is going to bring,” Tyson said.

Fox News Alabama: Tyson Fires Back at Troy King over Gambling

John Tyson said yesterday that he has no intentions of stepping down from his position as the Commander of Alabama Governor Riley’s anti-gambling task force.

Tyson he argues that the issue is greater than just a battle against illegal gambling, noting that casinos have a tendency to breed corruption.

“I fought corruption because it’s the right thing to do and yeah, I’ve taken some heat for it,” Tyson said. “Governor Riley and I talked about the price of fighting corruption. We both agree, it’s worth the heat.”

Tyson also said he would comply with King’s demands turn over the evidence the Task Force has collected.

When asked if he intends to execute raids on any casinos that dare to re-open in light of King’s announcement, Tyson replied: “The Governor of the state of Alabama as recently as this morning again says ‘John, you’re the commander of the task force on illegal gambling, go get ’em, ‘. I will see to it to see that the laws of the state are enforced. I will not disclose how we might choose to do that.”

Mongomery Advisor: Several lawsuits have been filed against the task force

The state of Alabama has paid $536,115 in legal expenses since December 2008 to support Governor Bob Riley’s Task Force on Illegal Gambling.

The state has also has seized about $1.3 million during raids on electronic bingo parlors. After each of the raids or in to stop anticipated raids, organizations have filed lawsuits against the Task Force, its Commander John Tyson., Governor Riley, and other officials.

According to the Governor’s office, the Task Force is currently involved in 18 lawsuits related to gambling. The court battles involve operators trying to get back gambling machines and monies seized during the raids. Some lawsuits even involve attempts by bingo establishments to file restraining orders against the Task Force to prevent future raids.

Animal rights group PETA has its feathers fluffed about an upcoming Animal Planet TV show about pigeon racing. The show is to be hosted by boxing champ Mike Tyson, and will follow him as he pits his pet pigeons against professional racing birds. PETA says the show is cruel to animals, and is worried that it will promote illegal gambling.

The Daily Telegraph (Sydney): PETA alleges illegal gambling on Mike Tyson’s pigeon racing TV reality show

Mike Tyson has a new “pigeon racing” reality TV show in the works, but before the show has even gone on the air, it is already under investigation over accusations of illegal gambling.

The retired champion boxer is a life-long pigeon lover. His new show, called Take on Tyson, is scheduled to air on Animal Planet. It is a show about bird racing, and it pits Tyson and his trained birds against the best racing pigeons in New York.

The animal rights group PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) is displeased. They are accusing the show of violating New York gambling laws, because the show stands to profit from animal racing.

The District Attorney in Brooklyn (where the show is filmed) is investigating PETA’s claims. Animal Planet has claimed that there would be no gambling on the show, but a representative for PETA retorted by pointing out that making any money (including Tyson’s salary) off animal racing is clearly illegal.

USA Today: PETA feathers ruffled by Mike Tyson NY pigeon show

An animal welfare group is asking New York City prosecutors to investigate boxing star Mike Tyson’s upcoming reality tv show about pigeon racing.

PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) argues that the show, which has yet to air, is cruel to animals. They also argue that races are likely to involve or promote illegal gambling.

The new show, which is expected to air next year on Animal Planet, will follow Tyson as he competes in pigeon races across New York. The former world heavyweight champion has raised pigeons all his life, but is not experienced racing them.

PETA sent a letter on March 18 to the Brooklyn district attorney’s office requesting that an investigation be opened. Jonah Bruno, district attorney spokesman, says they are looking into the matter.

NY Daily News: PETA fights to put a stop on Mike Tyson’s new Animal Planet reality show featuring pigeon racing

Animal rights activists are upset about boxing champ Mike Tyson’s plans to host a reality TV show about “the intensely competitive and bizarrely fascinating world of pigeon racing.”

PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) wants New York prosecutors to shut down the new Animal Planet show, “Taking on Tyson,” which will show Tyson racing his birds against other New York pigeons. PETA says the show exploits pigeons and glorifies an abusive sport.

The show might also run into trouble with New York’s anti-gambling laws.

“Pigeon racing as an industry involves gambling. That’s why people do it, to make money,” said PETA general counsel Jeffrey Kerr.

PETA thinks it is likely that wagers would be made over the outcome of races featured on the show.

He insisted District Attorney Charles Hynes should probe the Brooklyn-based show and “make sure the production is not allowed to go forward if illegal activity is going to take place.”

Jonah Bruno, a spokesman for the Brooklyn District Attorney’s offer, said that they received PETA’s complaint and are looking into the matter.

Tyson claims to have raised pigeons all his life, but he never raced them competitively before.

“We love these birds,” Tyson said. “It feels good returning to the rooftops of the city where it all started for me.”

Animal rights group PETA has its feathers fluffed about an upcoming Animal Planet TV show about pigeon racing. The show is to be hosted by boxing champ Mike Tyson, and will follow him as he pits his pet pigeons against professional racing birds. PETA says the show is cruel to animals, and is worried that it will promote illegal gambling.

The Daily Telegraph (Sydney): PETA alleges illegal gambling on Mike Tyson’s pigeon racing TV reality show

Mike Tyson has a new “pigeon racing” reality TV show in the works, but before the show has even gone on the air, it is already under investigation over accusations of illegal gambling.

The retired champion boxer is a life-long pigeon lover. His new show, called Take on Tyson, is scheduled to air on Animal Planet. It is a show about bird racing, and it pits Tyson and his trained birds against the best racing pigeons in New York.

The animal rights group PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) is displeased. They are accusing the show of violating New York gambling laws, because the show stands to profit from animal racing.

The District Attorney in Brooklyn (where the show is filmed) is investigating PETA’s claims. Animal Planet has claimed that there would be no gambling on the show, but a representative for PETA retorted by pointing out that making any money (including Tyson’s salary) off animal racing is clearly illegal.

USA Today: PETA feathers ruffled by Mike Tyson NY pigeon show

An animal welfare group is asking New York City prosecutors to investigate boxing star Mike Tyson’s upcoming reality tv show about pigeon racing.

PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) argues that the show, which has yet to air, is cruel to animals. They also argue that races are likely to involve or promote illegal gambling.

The new show, which is expected to air next year on Animal Planet, will follow Tyson as he competes in pigeon races across New York. The former world heavyweight champion has raised pigeons all his life, but is not experienced racing them.

PETA sent a letter on March 18 to the Brooklyn district attorney’s office requesting that an investigation be opened. Jonah Bruno, district attorney spokesman, says they are looking into the matter.

NY Daily News: PETA fights to put a stop on Mike Tyson’s new Animal Planet reality show featuring pigeon racing

Animal rights activists are upset about boxing champ Mike Tyson’s plans to host a reality TV show about “the intensely competitive and bizarrely fascinating world of pigeon racing.”

PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) wants New York prosecutors to shut down the new Animal Planet show, “Taking on Tyson,” which will show Tyson racing his birds against other New York pigeons. PETA says the show exploits pigeons and glorifies an abusive sport.

The show might also run into trouble with New York’s anti-gambling laws.

“Pigeon racing as an industry involves gambling. That’s why people do it, to make money,” said PETA general counsel Jeffrey Kerr.

PETA thinks it is likely that wagers would be made over the outcome of races featured on the show.

He insisted District Attorney Charles Hynes should probe the Brooklyn-based show and “make sure the production is not allowed to go forward if illegal activity is going to take place.”

Jonah Bruno, a spokesman for the Brooklyn District Attorney’s offer, said that they received PETA’s complaint and are looking into the matter.

Tyson claims to have raised pigeons all his life, but he never raced them competitively before.

“We love these birds,” Tyson said. “It feels good returning to the rooftops of the city where it all started for me.”

Brick and Mortar gambling has become a hot issue in the state of Indiana and a few different bills are currently in writing or have recently been voted on. Most notable was a proposal to allow floating casinos to move inland, but there’s also been legislation indicating that parents must give gambling profits to their kids.

Fox News: Staying wet: Casinos not allowed to move inland

An amendment in the Indiana House that would have allowed the area’s floating casinos to move inland was defeated, and the issue appears dead. Representatives voted 57-42 Tuesday and shot down the amendment to a broader Senate casino bill. The bill was pulled from further consideration in the House.

The deadline for Senate bills to be amended in the House is Wednesday and the bill could be reconsidered by then, but the bill’s sponsor, Democratic Rep. Bill Crawford has no such intentions for it.

Rep. Crawford was angered that amendments to boost Indiana’s “racinos” won support but not the inland casino language that was aimed primarily at helping riverboats in Gary, Hammond and East Chicago.

WBIC News 93.1 FM: Inland Casino Bill Rejected

Indiana’s House has voted against amending a gaming bill to allow existing riverboat casinos to convert to land-based operations. The gambling industry and individual casinos struggling to compete with growing operations in neighboring states were split by the issue.

Rep. Matt Bell argued that the amendment would protect an established industry in Indiana from outside competition. He said, “It can be an important part of making our properties competitive, so they can attract individual investment into the state.”

Rep. Mike Murphy, on the other hand, countered that casinos are asking for special treatment, saying: “They don’t want to be treated like a business. They want to be treated like a monopoly.” The point that the gambling industry contributes millions of dollars to the state economy while creating thousands of jobs was argued by Rep. Charlie Brown.

A legislative summer study on gambling indicated that the state could lose over $100 million in gambling tax revenue if it disregards Ohio casinos, which were authorized by voters in November.

The Assosciated Press: Indiana House Backs Taking Deadbeat Parents’ Winnings

The Indiana House recently passed a bill that would require gambling parents who hit big slot machine jackpots at casinos to give winnings to their children.

The bill was approved unanimously and would withhold gambling winnings from parents who are behind on child support payments. It all makes sense in a state where just 58% of child support payments are collected.

Over 165,000 non-custodial parents owe more than $2,000 for back child support in more than $2 billion of delinquencies. The withholdings would generally kick in on slot machine winnings of $1,200 or more. The bill must return to the Senate for consideration of changes the House made.

Brick and Mortar gambling has become a hot issue in the state of Indiana and a few different bills are currently in writing or have recently been voted on. Most notable was a proposal to allow floating casinos to move inland, but there’s also been legislation indicating that parents must give gambling profits to their kids.

Fox News: Staying wet: Casinos not allowed to move inland

An amendment in the Indiana House that would have allowed the area’s floating casinos to move inland was defeated, and the issue appears dead. Representatives voted 57-42 Tuesday and shot down the amendment to a broader Senate casino bill. The bill was pulled from further consideration in the House.

The deadline for Senate bills to be amended in the House is Wednesday and the bill could be reconsidered by then, but the bill’s sponsor, Democratic Rep. Bill Crawford has no such intentions for it.

Rep. Crawford was angered that amendments to boost Indiana’s “racinos” won support but not the inland casino language that was aimed primarily at helping riverboats in Gary, Hammond and East Chicago.

WBIC News 93.1 FM: Inland Casino Bill Rejected

Indiana’s House has voted against amending a gaming bill to allow existing riverboat casinos to convert to land-based operations. The gambling industry and individual casinos struggling to compete with growing operations in neighboring states were split by the issue.

Rep. Matt Bell argued that the amendment would protect an established industry in Indiana from outside competition. He said, “It can be an important part of making our properties competitive, so they can attract individual investment into the state.”

Rep. Mike Murphy, on the other hand, countered that casinos are asking for special treatment, saying: “They don’t want to be treated like a business. They want to be treated like a monopoly.” The point that the gambling industry contributes millions of dollars to the state economy while creating thousands of jobs was argued by Rep. Charlie Brown.

A legislative summer study on gambling indicated that the state could lose over $100 million in gambling tax revenue if it disregards Ohio casinos, which were authorized by voters in November.

The Assosciated Press: Indiana House Backs Taking Deadbeat Parents’ Winnings

The Indiana House recently passed a bill that would require gambling parents who hit big slot machine jackpots at casinos to give winnings to their children.

The bill was approved unanimously and would withhold gambling winnings from parents who are behind on child support payments. It all makes sense in a state where just 58% of child support payments are collected.

Over 165,000 non-custodial parents owe more than $2,000 for back child support in more than $2 billion of delinquencies. The withholdings would generally kick in on slot machine winnings of $1,200 or more. The bill must return to the Senate for consideration of changes the House made.