In April, after a Florida man collected over $130K in winnings from his bookie, the bookie called Officer Villar, and arranged for the gambler to be pulled over. Villar, along with his cousin who was with him impersonating a cop, took the money from the man calling it “evidence” and fled the scene. Now, a month later, the three have been arrested for armed robbery.

The Miami Herald: Officer charged in $131K gambling rip-off

When Miami police officer John Francisco Villar Jr. pulled over a man on the Palmetto Expressway last month, he confiscated a bag filled with $131,000 in cash. The bag wasn’t evidence – Fillar was stealing it.

Villar was arrested on Tuesday. He, his cousin, and a third man who runs an online gambling site are being accused of orchestrating the robbery.

The story is as follows: Marvin Duarte was out collecting his winnings from his bookie, Leonardo Lastre. As Duarte was driving home, Officer John Villar pulled his unmarked Ford Taurus (license plate covered) behind Duarte’s car with his police lights flashing. Villar had plain clothes on, with his badge hanging around his neck. Also with him was his cousin, wearing a bullet proof vest with the word “police” across the chest. Villar inspected Duarte’s car, found the money, took it as “evidence”, and fled.

It was later discovered through phone records that Officer Villar was in touch with bookie Leonardo Lastre, with Villar basically acting as a hired thug who was sent out to retrieve the money.

“It’s sad that an officer would use his authority in order to commit such unlawful acts,” said Detective Bobby Williams.

The charges against Villar include felony armed robbery with a firearm, armed burglary and conspiracy to commit armed robbery.

NBC Miami: Crooked Cop Helped Bookie Rob Gambler: Report

A Miami cop was busted this week after police found out he worked with a local bookie to steal thousands of dollars from a gambler.

Officer John Villar, 28, was arrested after he and his cousin Fausto Villar (who is not a cop) pulled over the gambler in April using Villar’s unmarked police car. The gambler, Victor Duarte, was returning from a visit to his bookie, Leonardo Lastre, who had paid him $131,000 cash in winnings.

After Duarte left with his money, Lastre called Officer Villar with details about Duarte’s car and where he was headed. Villar pulled Duarte over and took the money, saying it was “evidence”. Duarte started to shout for help, but the men fled the scene.

Villar and his cousin, along with the bookie Lastre, have all been arrested. They face charges of armed robbery, armed burglary and conspiracy to commit armed robbery. Fausto Villar also faces charges of impersonating a police officer.

CBS 4 South Florida News: Miami-Dade Cop, Cousin Accused Of Robbing Gambler

A Miami-Dade police officer has been charged with using his gun and badge to steal $131 thousand in cash from sports gambler Victor Duarte. Duarte placed several bets with bookie Leonardo Lastre who operates an illegal gambling operation. After Lastre paid the man his winnings, he phoned Officer Villar, who then pulled over the gambler and stole the money back with the help of his cousin, who was impersonating a police officer.

According to an internal investigation by Miami-Dade police, Bookie Lastre and Officer Villar had been in contact several times before the robbery, planning the operation. It event turned out that some of the money in the bag that Villar stole was his own, and that he had placed it there while vising Laste the day of the robbery.

After the robbery, Duarte gave chase, but Villar got away. Soon Duarte saw a Florida State Trooper, and told him what happened. When the Trooper Matthew Mihm pulled Villar over a few minutes later, he noticed the license plate on his car had been covered. Villar’s cousin ran off on foot with the money, without Mihm noticing.

Eventually, officials learned the truth, and got a search warrant for Villar’s vehicle, where they found evidence of the crime. Villar, his cousin, and Lastre the bookie now face charges of armed robbery.

In April, after a Florida man collected over $130K in winnings from his bookie, the bookie called Officer Villar, and arranged for the gambler to be pulled over. Villar, along with his cousin who was with him impersonating a cop, took the money from the man calling it “evidence” and fled the scene. Now, a month later, the three have been arrested for armed robbery.

The Miami Herald: Officer charged in $131K gambling rip-off

When Miami police officer John Francisco Villar Jr. pulled over a man on the Palmetto Expressway last month, he confiscated a bag filled with $131,000 in cash. The bag wasn’t evidence – Fillar was stealing it.

Villar was arrested on Tuesday. He, his cousin, and a third man who runs an online gambling site are being accused of orchestrating the robbery.

The story is as follows: Marvin Duarte was out collecting his winnings from his bookie, Leonardo Lastre. As Duarte was driving home, Officer John Villar pulled his unmarked Ford Taurus (license plate covered) behind Duarte’s car with his police lights flashing. Villar had plain clothes on, with his badge hanging around his neck. Also with him was his cousin, wearing a bullet proof vest with the word “police” across the chest. Villar inspected Duarte’s car, found the money, took it as “evidence”, and fled.

It was later discovered through phone records that Officer Villar was in touch with bookie Leonardo Lastre, with Villar basically acting as a hired thug who was sent out to retrieve the money.

“It’s sad that an officer would use his authority in order to commit such unlawful acts,” said Detective Bobby Williams.

The charges against Villar include felony armed robbery with a firearm, armed burglary and conspiracy to commit armed robbery.

NBC Miami: Crooked Cop Helped Bookie Rob Gambler: Report

A Miami cop was busted this week after police found out he worked with a local bookie to steal thousands of dollars from a gambler.

Officer John Villar, 28, was arrested after he and his cousin Fausto Villar (who is not a cop) pulled over the gambler in April using Villar’s unmarked police car. The gambler, Victor Duarte, was returning from a visit to his bookie, Leonardo Lastre, who had paid him $131,000 cash in winnings.

After Duarte left with his money, Lastre called Officer Villar with details about Duarte’s car and where he was headed. Villar pulled Duarte over and took the money, saying it was “evidence”. Duarte started to shout for help, but the men fled the scene.

Villar and his cousin, along with the bookie Lastre, have all been arrested. They face charges of armed robbery, armed burglary and conspiracy to commit armed robbery. Fausto Villar also faces charges of impersonating a police officer.

CBS 4 South Florida News: Miami-Dade Cop, Cousin Accused Of Robbing Gambler

A Miami-Dade police officer has been charged with using his gun and badge to steal $131 thousand in cash from sports gambler Victor Duarte. Duarte placed several bets with bookie Leonardo Lastre who operates an illegal gambling operation. After Lastre paid the man his winnings, he phoned Officer Villar, who then pulled over the gambler and stole the money back with the help of his cousin, who was impersonating a police officer.

According to an internal investigation by Miami-Dade police, Bookie Lastre and Officer Villar had been in contact several times before the robbery, planning the operation. It event turned out that some of the money in the bag that Villar stole was his own, and that he had placed it there while vising Laste the day of the robbery.

After the robbery, Duarte gave chase, but Villar got away. Soon Duarte saw a Florida State Trooper, and told him what happened. When the Trooper Matthew Mihm pulled Villar over a few minutes later, he noticed the license plate on his car had been covered. Villar’s cousin ran off on foot with the money, without Mihm noticing.

Eventually, officials learned the truth, and got a search warrant for Villar’s vehicle, where they found evidence of the crime. Villar, his cousin, and Lastre the bookie now face charges of armed robbery.

1. Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao

This Philippines pride is the best fighter alive today, compared to the likes of Muhammed Ali, Sugar Ray Leonard, and Marvin Hagler. Amazingly, Manny has won seven titles in seven different divisions.

2. Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Also known as the “king”, Mayweather has a stunning 40 wins by knock out and absolutely no losses. A fight between Pacman and the King would certainly be entertaining (see below).

3. “Sugar” Shane Mosley

Originally from sunny Pomona, California, Mosley has won titles in three weight divisions. He is also former WBA Welterweight Super Champion.

4. Paul Williams

At 6 feet 2 inches tall, Paul is a giant for his junior middleweight, middleweight and welterweight divisions that he is a part of. For his quick, deadly punch Williams is dubbed as the most “avoided fighter in the world”.

5. Juan Manuel Marquez

This Mexican professional boxer is the current Lightweight World Champion. Pound-for-pound, Juan can take on anyone.

For betting on boxing matches check out these top sportsbook reviews

1. Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao

This Philippines pride is the best fighter alive today, compared to the likes of Muhammed Ali, Sugar Ray Leonard, and Marvin Hagler. Amazingly, Manny has won seven titles in seven different divisions.

2. Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Also known as the “king”, Mayweather has a stunning 40 wins by knock out and absolutely no losses. A fight between Pacman and the King would certainly be entertaining (see below).

3. “Sugar” Shane Mosley

Originally from sunny Pomona, California, Mosley has won titles in three weight divisions. He is also former WBA Welterweight Super Champion.

4. Paul Williams

At 6 feet 2 inches tall, Paul is a giant for his junior middleweight, middleweight and welterweight divisions that he is a part of. For his quick, deadly punch Williams is dubbed as the most “avoided fighter in the world”.

5. Juan Manuel Marquez

This Mexican professional boxer is the current Lightweight World Champion. Pound-for-pound, Juan can take on anyone.

For betting on boxing matches check out these top sportsbook reviews

In a surprise move, Betfair has just added a sports betting app to Apple’s iPhone store, breaking down Apple’s anti-gambling policy. The new app uses geolocation and age verification to ensure only players who are allowed to bet on sports are able to do so. Apple has yet to offer an official statement, so it is possible that the app just slipped under the radar.

Geek.com: Did Apple just greenlight online gambling on the App Store?

You can’t have sex or nudity at the Apple App Store, but now you can bet on sports using your iPhone. Either this app submission slipped under the Apple censors’ radar, or they have relaxed their policies in order to make more types of software available.

Whichever the case may be, Betfair has just become the first gambling group to have its betting software (called Betfair Client) available at the store. According to EGR Mag, this development ushers in a new era for iPhone users:

Betfair’s mobile chief claims that Apple imposed “no terms and conditions” to regulate gambling applications. Despite this, the app only works in the UK and Ireland.

Apple has been very restrictive lately about what apps it allows, especially when they show skin or offer adult themes. They even removed apps provided by underwear sellers because they included images of scantily-clothed men and women in their shopping apps.

eGamingReview: Betfair gambling app marks Apple turnaround

Betfair recently became the first major online betting company to offer a gambling application through Apple’s iPhone App Store, marking a new stance on gambling apps from Apple.

The downloadable app, which Betfair’s exchange product, marks a change in Apple’s policies regarding gambling apps, which have not been allowed in the past.

Charles Palmer, head of Betfair mobile said: “There were no terms and conditions about gambling. We approached Apple with the proposal and our app, showing it does the normal KYC and age verification.”

The app is only available to customers in the UK and Ireland, and uses the iPhone’s built-in GPS to make sure bets are only placed from these areas.

“We have also added the ability to locate where the customer is. It can tell if you are in the UK or Ireland, and if you’re not, it won’t function. We put that in there as an extra precaution – they didn’t request that,” he said.

Computer Weekly: BetFair puts iPhone gaming app into Apple App Store

BetFair, one of the world’s biggest online sports betting operators, just launched an iPhone app that allows punters to bet on sports while on the move.

The launch is part of an attempt by BetFair to “mobilise” its business. The company already supports browser-based apps on Symbian, Blackberry, and Android, and they are working on spreading out even more.

The new app gives the company fine control over authentication and verification of bettors, making it almost impossible for under-age people to place bets. It also uses the iPhone’s GPS locator to only allow bets to be placed from authorized jurisdictions.

According to BetFair, mobile customers are up 40% from last year, with revenues from mobile customers up a full 50%.

In a surprise move, Betfair has just added a sports betting app to Apple’s iPhone store, breaking down Apple’s anti-gambling policy. The new app uses geolocation and age verification to ensure only players who are allowed to bet on sports are able to do so. Apple has yet to offer an official statement, so it is possible that the app just slipped under the radar.

Geek.com: Did Apple just greenlight online gambling on the App Store?

You can’t have sex or nudity at the Apple App Store, but now you can bet on sports using your iPhone. Either this app submission slipped under the Apple censors’ radar, or they have relaxed their policies in order to make more types of software available.

Whichever the case may be, Betfair has just become the first gambling group to have its betting software (called Betfair Client) available at the store. According to EGR Mag, this development ushers in a new era for iPhone users:

Betfair’s mobile chief claims that Apple imposed “no terms and conditions” to regulate gambling applications. Despite this, the app only works in the UK and Ireland.

Apple has been very restrictive lately about what apps it allows, especially when they show skin or offer adult themes. They even removed apps provided by underwear sellers because they included images of scantily-clothed men and women in their shopping apps.

eGamingReview: Betfair gambling app marks Apple turnaround

Betfair recently became the first major online betting company to offer a gambling application through Apple’s iPhone App Store, marking a new stance on gambling apps from Apple.

The downloadable app, which Betfair’s exchange product, marks a change in Apple’s policies regarding gambling apps, which have not been allowed in the past.

Charles Palmer, head of Betfair mobile said: “There were no terms and conditions about gambling. We approached Apple with the proposal and our app, showing it does the normal KYC and age verification.”

The app is only available to customers in the UK and Ireland, and uses the iPhone’s built-in GPS to make sure bets are only placed from these areas.

“We have also added the ability to locate where the customer is. It can tell if you are in the UK or Ireland, and if you’re not, it won’t function. We put that in there as an extra precaution – they didn’t request that,” he said.

Computer Weekly: BetFair puts iPhone gaming app into Apple App Store

BetFair, one of the world’s biggest online sports betting operators, just launched an iPhone app that allows punters to bet on sports while on the move.

The launch is part of an attempt by BetFair to “mobilise” its business. The company already supports browser-based apps on Symbian, Blackberry, and Android, and they are working on spreading out even more.

The new app gives the company fine control over authentication and verification of bettors, making it almost impossible for under-age people to place bets. It also uses the iPhone’s GPS locator to only allow bets to be placed from authorized jurisdictions.

According to BetFair, mobile customers are up 40% from last year, with revenues from mobile customers up a full 50%.

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.

Paddy Power has been pulling all of the stops and stunts when it comes to advertising lately and the stunts seem to be garnering more and more attention. The latest opportunity has presented itself and Paddy Power took it – the company has sponsored the “Sin Bin” a confessional booth in a Catholic Church.

The Telegraph: Paddy Power betting firm sponsors church confession box

Paddy Power has paid £10,000 and sponsored a new confessional booth in Our Lady & St Etheldreda church in the racing town of Newmarket, Suffolk. Jockey Frankie Dettori, who was married in the church, performed the official opening ceremony yesterday.

The Dublin-based bookmaker has 200 offices in Ireland, 100 in Britain and a turnover of £2 billion. The betting company hopes that confessing your sins in a Paddy Power confession box will become a tradition for race-goers.

Sicilian-born Dettori, who is riding the Guineas meeting in Newmarket this weekend, said: “I was married in this church 13 years ago and all five of my children were baptised here.
Fr Michael Griffin, the priest, said: “It was suggested by a parishoner that we should ask Paddy Power for help because of its horse-racing connections. We were very pleased when they generously agreed.”

The Guardian: Church bets on power of sponsorship

St Etheldreda Church in Newmarket decided to turn the sin of gambling at this weekend’s Guineas Festival to its favour. The Catholic Church has taken £10,000 from bookie Paddy Power in return for sponsorship rights to the confession box.

“Our church has felt for a long time that we should have closer ties with the horse racing industry in Newmarket,” said Fr. Griffin. “Through the generosity of Paddy Power this is now starting to happen.”

Generosity indeed, but how difficult will it be for some penitent punters to drop a coin in the “sin box” if they happen to have already lost their shirt on a bet placed with Paddy Power? God only knows.

BBC News: Bookmaker Paddy Power sponsors confessional box

An Irish bookmaker has paid £10,000 for a new confessional box at a Catholic church in Newmarket after he was approached for a donation.

Father Griffin said everyone “liked a flutter” and gambling was only a sin if it left a wife and family without food. The priest said that the person who made the call knew Paddy Power was the name of a betting shop chain but was surprised when Paddy Power himself answered the phone.

Father Griffin said that the church had been trying to raise a total of £65,000 for renovations, which also included a new altar and font. The rest of the money raised has come from legacies.

Paddy Power has been pulling all of the stops and stunts when it comes to advertising lately and the stunts seem to be garnering more and more attention. The latest opportunity has presented itself and Paddy Power took it – the company has sponsored the “Sin Bin” a confessional booth in a Catholic Church.

The Telegraph: Paddy Power betting firm sponsors church confession box

Paddy Power has paid £10,000 and sponsored a new confessional booth in Our Lady & St Etheldreda church in the racing town of Newmarket, Suffolk. Jockey Frankie Dettori, who was married in the church, performed the official opening ceremony yesterday.

The Dublin-based bookmaker has 200 offices in Ireland, 100 in Britain and a turnover of £2 billion. The betting company hopes that confessing your sins in a Paddy Power confession box will become a tradition for race-goers.

Sicilian-born Dettori, who is riding the Guineas meeting in Newmarket this weekend, said: “I was married in this church 13 years ago and all five of my children were baptised here.
Fr Michael Griffin, the priest, said: “It was suggested by a parishoner that we should ask Paddy Power for help because of its horse-racing connections. We were very pleased when they generously agreed.”

The Guardian: Church bets on power of sponsorship

St Etheldreda Church in Newmarket decided to turn the sin of gambling at this weekend’s Guineas Festival to its favour. The Catholic Church has taken £10,000 from bookie Paddy Power in return for sponsorship rights to the confession box.

“Our church has felt for a long time that we should have closer ties with the horse racing industry in Newmarket,” said Fr. Griffin. “Through the generosity of Paddy Power this is now starting to happen.”

Generosity indeed, but how difficult will it be for some penitent punters to drop a coin in the “sin box” if they happen to have already lost their shirt on a bet placed with Paddy Power? God only knows.

BBC News: Bookmaker Paddy Power sponsors confessional box

An Irish bookmaker has paid £10,000 for a new confessional box at a Catholic church in Newmarket after he was approached for a donation.

Father Griffin said everyone “liked a flutter” and gambling was only a sin if it left a wife and family without food. The priest said that the person who made the call knew Paddy Power was the name of a betting shop chain but was surprised when Paddy Power himself answered the phone.

Father Griffin said that the church had been trying to raise a total of £65,000 for renovations, which also included a new altar and font. The rest of the money raised has come from legacies.

Yesterday, entry to Ascot was free. Over 19,000 people showed up. It was a record-breaking day for bookmakers, but not in a good way. Many bet shops were experimenting with decimal prices instead of the usual fractional notation. The change confused punters, leaving some bookies barley able to cover expenses despite the impressive turnout.

Guardian: Decimal experiment fails to make its point

UK racing’s experiment with decimal odds only lasted a single day. The five major bookmakers agreed to show their odds as decimals rather than the traditional fractions all reported slumps in business, even though free entry to Ascot brought a huge crowd.

“We’ve had a number of queries today and they’ve all been about how we convert the decimal prices into the odds that are shown on other boards,” one worker said.

“So I’m now £160 up on the day and that just about covers the expenses. Which, considering the number of bets we’ve taken, is remarkable.”

Bookmakers feel that punters were confused by the unfamiliar decimals, and decided to place their wagers with other bookies who were not taking part in the trial.

“The feedback we’re getting from the customers is that they’re struggling to understand what our prices represent,” said Geoff Banks, betting on the rails.

“In the second race, for example, the favourite was 13-8 everywhere. I went 1.75 [a better price, the equivalent of 7-4] and I kept that for six or seven minutes – no particular interest.

“So then I said to my colleague next door, you go 7-4 with the fractionals and see what happens. He took six bets immediately and I took one.”

It is to be hoped that this brief change to decimal odds has not put bettors off.

Mirror: 5 out of 10 for decimal prices

Decimalisation began at Ascot yesterday as British racecourses tried out decimal odds instead traditional fractions.

The move is being heralded by Racing For Change, which is trying to bring racing to a wider audience. Their plan also includes free entry at nine fixtures this week to bring in new clients.

The decimal odds trial didn’t go over well. First-time racegoer Paul Rostron said: “The Tote odds include the stake but the decimalised odds don’t, so it’s quite confusing.”

Times Online: Bets are off as Ascot takes an unlucky punt on decimal odds

Yesterday at Ascot, a handful of course-side bookmakers offered their prices in decimal odds, a model that some believe is the future of betting. Instead, confusion took lead as punters juggled with the two types of odds.

Biike Wharton Slaney was not optimistic. “It’s just a fad. If you don’t know the odds you’re not going to be betting in the first place,” he mused.

Bettor John Denyer, 75, was dumbfounded by his decimal betting slip. “It’s hard for me being an old fellow,” he said. “If this takes over, that’s me out the window.”

Entry to Ascot was free yesterday, and more than 19,000 people showed up. There were a few takers for the new decimal system, but most punters were not happy with the change.

By midday, one bookmaker decided he’d had enough. His takings were 35 per cent down on last year. “The customers are confused,” he said.

Yesterday, entry to Ascot was free. Over 19,000 people showed up. It was a record-breaking day for bookmakers, but not in a good way. Many bet shops were experimenting with decimal prices instead of the usual fractional notation. The change confused punters, leaving some bookies barley able to cover expenses despite the impressive turnout.

Guardian: Decimal experiment fails to make its point

UK racing’s experiment with decimal odds only lasted a single day. The five major bookmakers agreed to show their odds as decimals rather than the traditional fractions all reported slumps in business, even though free entry to Ascot brought a huge crowd.

“We’ve had a number of queries today and they’ve all been about how we convert the decimal prices into the odds that are shown on other boards,” one worker said.

“So I’m now £160 up on the day and that just about covers the expenses. Which, considering the number of bets we’ve taken, is remarkable.”

Bookmakers feel that punters were confused by the unfamiliar decimals, and decided to place their wagers with other bookies who were not taking part in the trial.

“The feedback we’re getting from the customers is that they’re struggling to understand what our prices represent,” said Geoff Banks, betting on the rails.

“In the second race, for example, the favourite was 13-8 everywhere. I went 1.75 [a better price, the equivalent of 7-4] and I kept that for six or seven minutes – no particular interest.

“So then I said to my colleague next door, you go 7-4 with the fractionals and see what happens. He took six bets immediately and I took one.”

It is to be hoped that this brief change to decimal odds has not put bettors off.

Mirror: 5 out of 10 for decimal prices

Decimalisation began at Ascot yesterday as British racecourses tried out decimal odds instead traditional fractions.

The move is being heralded by Racing For Change, which is trying to bring racing to a wider audience. Their plan also includes free entry at nine fixtures this week to bring in new clients.

The decimal odds trial didn’t go over well. First-time racegoer Paul Rostron said: “The Tote odds include the stake but the decimalised odds don’t, so it’s quite confusing.”

Times Online: Bets are off as Ascot takes an unlucky punt on decimal odds

Yesterday at Ascot, a handful of course-side bookmakers offered their prices in decimal odds, a model that some believe is the future of betting. Instead, confusion took lead as punters juggled with the two types of odds.

Biike Wharton Slaney was not optimistic. “It’s just a fad. If you don’t know the odds you’re not going to be betting in the first place,” he mused.

Bettor John Denyer, 75, was dumbfounded by his decimal betting slip. “It’s hard for me being an old fellow,” he said. “If this takes over, that’s me out the window.”

Entry to Ascot was free yesterday, and more than 19,000 people showed up. There were a few takers for the new decimal system, but most punters were not happy with the change.

By midday, one bookmaker decided he’d had enough. His takings were 35 per cent down on last year. “The customers are confused,” he said.

Spanish tennis superstar Rafael Nadal, nicknamed “Rafa”, will step out onto the clay today at the 2010 Monte-Carlo Masters, making his debut in the 103rd iteration of this annual event. For the past five years, Nadal has played in this ATP Masters Series tournament, and each of those years, he won first place in the single title. Now he’s at it again, battling against last year’s finalist Novak Djokovic and wild card entry Andy Murray, hoping to break a world tennis record by grabbing his sixth straight Masters title.

Nadal, 23, is entering this year’s Monte-Carlo Masters with a 29-1 career record, and is walking proud with 27 straight wins since he lost to Guillermo Coria in 2003. Today he will be playing his 201st ATP World Tour Masters 1000 match – an astonishing number for a player his age. Nadal stands tall at 6’1”, and is a very imposing figure on the court. His aggressive play style and massive forehand make him a formidable player.

He began playing tennis when he was three years old. Right away his uncle Toni, a former tennis pro, recognized the youngster’s talent for the game; Toni has been coaching him ever since. Nadal won his first championship when he was eight, which made him work even harder at training and practicing. Around this time, Toni began encouraging him to play left-handed (Nadal is naturally right-handed), a move which would give him an advantage on the court. He still uses this strategy today.

As a teen, Nadal was also an adept football player, and was heavily involved in both sports. His father, concerned about the boy’s academic future, forced him to choose just one. Obviously, Nadal chose tennis. The choice paid off, and by the age of 17, Nadal was already ranked among the 50 best tennis players in the world.

His entrance into the pro circuit was met with some criticism – not because of how Nadal played, but because of how he looked. His propensity to wear sleeveless shirts, below-the-knee trousers and a bandana drew endless mocking from the press. One television commenter even joked that he showed up to a game wearing his sister’s clothes. Nadal shrugged the jokes off, and went on to play like a champ.

Nadal’s career exploded in 2005 when he dominated the spring clay court season, winning 25 consecutive matches and establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with. This year earned him the ATP Most Improved Player of the Year award. By now Nadal was ranked number 5 in the world, making him the youngest player to make it into the Top 10 since Andrei Medvedev in 1993.

The years since have been a battle against injuries forcing off-court time here and there, but overall his path of progress has been a steep climb towards the top. Now, Nadal is confident that he will claim his 6th straight Monte-Carlo Masters title this year. His primary adversary Roger Federer is not playing this year, giving Nadal a good chance of fulfilling his goal. “I’ve always been a winner”, Nadal says in an official press release. “And will soon be one again!”

Whether players favor Nadal or his competition for this year’s title, now is the time to put money down. Bettors in France across Europe are advised to use Bet365 Sports, while those in the US should check out Bodog, Brobury Sports or BetUS Sportsbook. Each of these trusted online sportsbooks offers their own odds and lines, players may want to shop around to find a system that most benefits them.

Spanish tennis superstar Rafael Nadal, nicknamed “Rafa”, will step out onto the clay today at the 2010 Monte-Carlo Masters, making his debut in the 103rd iteration of this annual event. For the past five years, Nadal has played in this ATP Masters Series tournament, and each of those years, he won first place in the single title. Now he’s at it again, battling against last year’s finalist Novak Djokovic and wild card entry Andy Murray, hoping to break a world tennis record by grabbing his sixth straight Masters title.

Nadal, 23, is entering this year’s Monte-Carlo Masters with a 29-1 career record, and is walking proud with 27 straight wins since he lost to Guillermo Coria in 2003. Today he will be playing his 201st ATP World Tour Masters 1000 match – an astonishing number for a player his age. Nadal stands tall at 6’1”, and is a very imposing figure on the court. His aggressive play style and massive forehand make him a formidable player.

He began playing tennis when he was three years old. Right away his uncle Toni, a former tennis pro, recognized the youngster’s talent for the game; Toni has been coaching him ever since. Nadal won his first championship when he was eight, which made him work even harder at training and practicing. Around this time, Toni began encouraging him to play left-handed (Nadal is naturally right-handed), a move which would give him an advantage on the court. He still uses this strategy today.

As a teen, Nadal was also an adept football player, and was heavily involved in both sports. His father, concerned about the boy’s academic future, forced him to choose just one. Obviously, Nadal chose tennis. The choice paid off, and by the age of 17, Nadal was already ranked among the 50 best tennis players in the world.

His entrance into the pro circuit was met with some criticism – not because of how Nadal played, but because of how he looked. His propensity to wear sleeveless shirts, below-the-knee trousers and a bandana drew endless mocking from the press. One television commenter even joked that he showed up to a game wearing his sister’s clothes. Nadal shrugged the jokes off, and went on to play like a champ.

Nadal’s career exploded in 2005 when he dominated the spring clay court season, winning 25 consecutive matches and establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with. This year earned him the ATP Most Improved Player of the Year award. By now Nadal was ranked number 5 in the world, making him the youngest player to make it into the Top 10 since Andrei Medvedev in 1993.

The years since have been a battle against injuries forcing off-court time here and there, but overall his path of progress has been a steep climb towards the top. Now, Nadal is confident that he will claim his 6th straight Monte-Carlo Masters title this year. His primary adversary Roger Federer is not playing this year, giving Nadal a good chance of fulfilling his goal. “I’ve always been a winner”, Nadal says in an official press release. “And will soon be one again!”

Whether players favor Nadal or his competition for this year’s title, now is the time to put money down. Bettors in France across Europe are advised to use Bet365 Sports, while those in the US should check out Bodog, Brobury Sports or BetUS Sportsbook. Each of these trusted online sportsbooks offers their own odds and lines, players may want to shop around to find a system that most benefits them.

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.

UK’s largest sports betting company Ladbrokes has forged a deal with France’s largest pay-tv provider Canal+. Together the two will forge an online gambling and sports betting service for French players. The new service will launch later this year, and will attempt to lure Canal+ subscribers to Ladbrokes’ online gaming websites.

Financial Times: Ladbrokes tilts at French gambling market

Ladbrokes has entered France’s newly-regulated gambling market through a joint venture with Canal+, the pay-TV broadcaster. Together they will create a new internet betting and gaming service.

Through the operation, which is supported by an initial €2.25m (£1.97m) of funds from each partner, Ladbrokes will gain access to 12.5m subscribers of Canal+.

The terms of the deal demand that Ladbrokes refrain from operating any other online gambling operations in France until two years after the partnership ends.

Until recently, Ladbrokes was skeptical about the French market because tight regulations and steep tax rates. Operators are required to pay 7.5% tax of turnover on sports betting and horse racing, and 2% tax on poker turnover.

The new service will launch later this year, as long as it gets approved French regulators. France is new to the world of online gambling, and the government is pushing to get the new market up and running before the start of the football World Cup on June 11.

Ladbrokes and Canal+ will face a lot of competition in France’s new online gambling market. Other French groups have signed deals with brands like Betclick, PartyGaming, Paddy Power, and Everest Poker.

Reuters UK: Ladbrokes to launch French JV

The UK’s largest online bookmaker Ladbrokes has signed a joint venture agreement with Groupe CANAL+ to launch an online gambling and sports betting service in France.

The new service is set to launch by the end of the year, so long as the application is approved by French authorities. It will mark Ladbrokes’ first move into the French market in its 124-year history.

“We believe that there is an opportunity to build a good business in France over time as the market and regulation develop,” said Ladbrokes’ John O’Reilly.

Both Ladbrokes and CANAL+ are putting forth an initial €2.25 million to fund the 50:50 venture. Ladbrokes will provide its online gambling knowledge and technology, while CANAL+ will provide access to media, brand, and a large base of subscribers.

Times Online: Ladbrokes takes a punt on French venture

Ladbrokes is making a move on the French gambling market through a joint venture with Canal+, France’s top pay-TV company. Ladbrokes hopes to lure French gamblers to its website and through its new partner’s television channels.

France recently opened up its gambling market, breaking down the old Française des Jeux lottery monopoly.

“We currently have no presence in France,” said a Ladbrokes spokesperson. “It is a very competitive market but it is also a very big market. It will still be highly regulated but it is hoped that it will be further deregulated over time.

Ladbrokes and Canal+ are both putting up an initial €2.25 million (£1.97 million) into the 50:50 joint ventures. The contract also gives Canal+ the option to force Ladbrokes to buy its stake in five years.

Ladbrokes’ online gambling chief John O’Reilly said: “Canal+ is a brand synonymous with sport in France. We believe that there is an opportunity to build a good business in France over time as the market and regulation develop.”

UK’s largest sports betting company Ladbrokes has forged a deal with France’s largest pay-tv provider Canal+. Together the two will forge an online gambling and sports betting service for French players. The new service will launch later this year, and will attempt to lure Canal+ subscribers to Ladbrokes’ online gaming websites.

Financial Times: Ladbrokes tilts at French gambling market

Ladbrokes has entered France’s newly-regulated gambling market through a joint venture with Canal+, the pay-TV broadcaster. Together they will create a new internet betting and gaming service.

Through the operation, which is supported by an initial €2.25m (£1.97m) of funds from each partner, Ladbrokes will gain access to 12.5m subscribers of Canal+.

The terms of the deal demand that Ladbrokes refrain from operating any other online gambling operations in France until two years after the partnership ends.

Until recently, Ladbrokes was skeptical about the French market because tight regulations and steep tax rates. Operators are required to pay 7.5% tax of turnover on sports betting and horse racing, and 2% tax on poker turnover.

The new service will launch later this year, as long as it gets approved French regulators. France is new to the world of online gambling, and the government is pushing to get the new market up and running before the start of the football World Cup on June 11.

Ladbrokes and Canal+ will face a lot of competition in France’s new online gambling market. Other French groups have signed deals with brands like Betclick, PartyGaming, Paddy Power, and Everest Poker.

Reuters UK: Ladbrokes to launch French JV

The UK’s largest online bookmaker Ladbrokes has signed a joint venture agreement with Groupe CANAL+ to launch an online gambling and sports betting service in France.

The new service is set to launch by the end of the year, so long as the application is approved by French authorities. It will mark Ladbrokes’ first move into the French market in its 124-year history.

“We believe that there is an opportunity to build a good business in France over time as the market and regulation develop,” said Ladbrokes’ John O’Reilly.

Both Ladbrokes and CANAL+ are putting forth an initial €2.25 million to fund the 50:50 venture. Ladbrokes will provide its online gambling knowledge and technology, while CANAL+ will provide access to media, brand, and a large base of subscribers.

Times Online: Ladbrokes takes a punt on French venture

Ladbrokes is making a move on the French gambling market through a joint venture with Canal+, France’s top pay-TV company. Ladbrokes hopes to lure French gamblers to its website and through its new partner’s television channels.

France recently opened up its gambling market, breaking down the old Française des Jeux lottery monopoly.

“We currently have no presence in France,” said a Ladbrokes spokesperson. “It is a very competitive market but it is also a very big market. It will still be highly regulated but it is hoped that it will be further deregulated over time.

Ladbrokes and Canal+ are both putting up an initial €2.25 million (£1.97 million) into the 50:50 joint ventures. The contract also gives Canal+ the option to force Ladbrokes to buy its stake in five years.

Ladbrokes’ online gambling chief John O’Reilly said: “Canal+ is a brand synonymous with sport in France. We believe that there is an opportunity to build a good business in France over time as the market and regulation develop.”

Are you ready for some action ? Go to Bodog

Are you ready for some action ? Go to Bodog

Malaysia’s Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak made an announcement last week that he is considering legalizing sports betting in the country, perhaps even in time for the FIFA World Cup that begins on June 11 in South Africa. The announcement has many frustrated, including his own MPs, who feel that Najib is keeping them out of the loop.

AsiaOne News: Legal sports betting in Malaysia soon?

Sports betting in Malaysia may soon be legalized, perhaps even in time for the Fifa World Cup finals in South Africa that begin on June 11.

A local gambling firm called the Berjaya Group is seeking approval to offer sports internet betting activities in the country.

The group received such permission from the Finance Ministry in October 2004, and even paid RM25 million for a 20-year concession. The prime minister, however, shot down the proposal, saying the government would not legalize football betting in Malaysia.

Malaysians are already betting illegally on sports, and authorities are hopeful that legalizing sports betting would reduce the number of illegal bettors.

“It will likely divert money from illegal football betting. In 2006, it was estimated that the legal gaming is valued at RM850 million ($260 million) every day in Malaysia, with illegal gambling estimated at around the same amount.

This gives the total size of estimated daily gambling in Malaysia at around RM1.7 billion ($520 million).
It will also take some of the gaming market share lost to Singapore with the opening of its first casino recently,” said an industry observer.

Free Malaysia Today: MPs to Najib: Explain bid to legalise sports betting

Malasia MPs feel that Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak has some explaining to do regarding his recent statement that he is “considering” legalizing sports betting in Malaysia.

Pakatan Rakyat leaders have taken him to task over his statement in Hong Kong, with Rasah MP Anthony Loke Siew Fook accusing Najib of being “secretive” about the matter.

“Why is Najib so secretive about this? If it’s indeed true that the government is considering to legalise it, doesn’t he know the social impact it will have on the youth? I challenge him to explain this matter in Parliament,” Rasah MP Anthony Loke Siew Fook said in Parliament last week.

Machang MP Saifuddin Nasution Ismail also questioned the government’s move in considering the matter.

“Is it solely for tax purposes? Don’t they know the social impact behind it? Is this their move to reduce the deficit gap? The ball is now in Najib’s court to answer this,” he said.

The Malay Mail: NGOs shoot down proposal on sports betting

The general consensus among non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Malaysia is that legalizing sports betting could lead to social problems in the long run.

Datuk N. Marimuthu, president of Consumers Associations (Fomca), has expressed concerns that legalizing sports betting could lower people’s morality.

When asked for a comment about the recent announcement that sports betting may soon be legalized in Malaysia, Marimuthu replied: “Some turn to gambling with the hopes of striking gold. But gambling, in whatever form, is never right.”

“Whatever your religion,” he continued, “gambling falls in the same category as womanising.”

Malaysian Muslim Consumers Association (PPIM) secretary general Datuk Dr Maamor Osman also dislikes the idea of legalizing sports betting in Malaysia.

“What’s the use of labeling Malaysia a Muslim country if we do not portray it as such? Speaking from a multi-racial angle, there is no religion that allows its followers to engage in such activity. It is bad for everyone.”

Malaysia’s Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak made an announcement last week that he is considering legalizing sports betting in the country, perhaps even in time for the FIFA World Cup that begins on June 11 in South Africa. The announcement has many frustrated, including his own MPs, who feel that Najib is keeping them out of the loop.

AsiaOne News: Legal sports betting in Malaysia soon?

Sports betting in Malaysia may soon be legalized, perhaps even in time for the Fifa World Cup finals in South Africa that begin on June 11.

A local gambling firm called the Berjaya Group is seeking approval to offer sports internet betting activities in the country.

The group received such permission from the Finance Ministry in October 2004, and even paid RM25 million for a 20-year concession. The prime minister, however, shot down the proposal, saying the government would not legalize football betting in Malaysia.

Malaysians are already betting illegally on sports, and authorities are hopeful that legalizing sports betting would reduce the number of illegal bettors.

“It will likely divert money from illegal football betting. In 2006, it was estimated that the legal gaming is valued at RM850 million ($260 million) every day in Malaysia, with illegal gambling estimated at around the same amount.

This gives the total size of estimated daily gambling in Malaysia at around RM1.7 billion ($520 million).
It will also take some of the gaming market share lost to Singapore with the opening of its first casino recently,” said an industry observer.

Free Malaysia Today: MPs to Najib: Explain bid to legalise sports betting

Malasia MPs feel that Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak has some explaining to do regarding his recent statement that he is “considering” legalizing sports betting in Malaysia.

Pakatan Rakyat leaders have taken him to task over his statement in Hong Kong, with Rasah MP Anthony Loke Siew Fook accusing Najib of being “secretive” about the matter.

“Why is Najib so secretive about this? If it’s indeed true that the government is considering to legalise it, doesn’t he know the social impact it will have on the youth? I challenge him to explain this matter in Parliament,” Rasah MP Anthony Loke Siew Fook said in Parliament last week.

Machang MP Saifuddin Nasution Ismail also questioned the government’s move in considering the matter.

“Is it solely for tax purposes? Don’t they know the social impact behind it? Is this their move to reduce the deficit gap? The ball is now in Najib’s court to answer this,” he said.

The Malay Mail: NGOs shoot down proposal on sports betting

The general consensus among non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Malaysia is that legalizing sports betting could lead to social problems in the long run.

Datuk N. Marimuthu, president of Consumers Associations (Fomca), has expressed concerns that legalizing sports betting could lower people’s morality.

When asked for a comment about the recent announcement that sports betting may soon be legalized in Malaysia, Marimuthu replied: “Some turn to gambling with the hopes of striking gold. But gambling, in whatever form, is never right.”

“Whatever your religion,” he continued, “gambling falls in the same category as womanising.”

Malaysian Muslim Consumers Association (PPIM) secretary general Datuk Dr Maamor Osman also dislikes the idea of legalizing sports betting in Malaysia.

“What’s the use of labeling Malaysia a Muslim country if we do not portray it as such? Speaking from a multi-racial angle, there is no religion that allows its followers to engage in such activity. It is bad for everyone.”