Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board Removes Gambling Privileges For 17 Individuals
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) has recently taken significant steps to enhance player protection and uphold the integrity of the state’s gaming industry. On Wednesday, the Board announced the inclusion of 17 individuals on its various Involuntary Exclusion Lists, a measure that prevents these individuals from participating in Pennsylvania’s gambling activities, both in-person and online.
Expanding the Involuntary Exclusion Lists: A Protective Measure
As of now, the PGCB’s Involuntary Exclusion Lists encompass a total of 1,379 individuals. This figure underscores the Board’s commitment to ensuring a safe gambling environment for all patrons. The recent actions reflect careful monitoring and enforcement of regulations aimed at safeguarding vulnerable populations, particularly minors.
Among the newly excluded individuals are four who were found to have left minors unattended during their gambling activities. This behavior is not only irresponsible but poses significant risks to the welfare of children. The following cases highlight these concerning incidents:
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Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course: A male patron was found to have left three children—ages 2, 11, and 12—unattended in a vehicle for over two hours while he engaged in table games.
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Rivers Casino Philadelphia: Another individual left minors unattended on two separate occasions, first leaving children ages 3 and 12 in a vehicle for nine minutes while he placed bets, and later leaving two 14-year-olds alone for ten minutes under the same circumstances.
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Presque Isle Downs and Casino: A patron left three children—ages 8, 11, and 13—unattended in a vehicle for ten minutes while gambling at the sportsbook.
- Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia: A male gambler abandoned a 12-year-old in the lobby for 41 minutes while he played slot machines.
The PGCB emphasizes that these exclusions serve as a critical reminder that adults must not leave minors unattended in parking lots, hotel lobbies, or any area within a casino. Such actions create a potentially unsafe environment that could endanger children’s safety.
A Broader Look at Exclusions in the Gaming Industry
In addition to the above cases, the PGCB has placed seven other individuals on the Involuntary Casino Exclusion List due to varying criminal activities both in Pennsylvania and in other states. Notably, four individuals were part of a coordinated effort to cheat at Hollywood Casino Morgantown through "dice sliding," a deceptive technique that netted them nearly $50,000 before being apprehended.
Moreover, the Board has taken action against six individuals who were placed on the Involuntary Interactive Gaming List for fraudulent activities. Such activities include requesting and receiving unauthorized chargebacks on credit cards, which severely undermines the trust and reliability essential to online gambling platforms.
The Importance of Enforcement in the Gambling Ecosystem
The PGCB’s proactive measures illustrate the critical role enforcement plays in maintaining the integrity of the gambling industry. By actively monitoring behaviors that threaten the safety of minors and upholding regulations against fraud, the Board not only protects consumers but also strengthens the overall gaming framework in Pennsylvania.
Conclusion
As the gambling landscape continues to evolve, the PGCB’s commitment to protecting vulnerable populations through stringent enforcement is commendable. These efforts not only highlight the challenges faced in the gaming sector but also serve as a framework for best practices that can be adopted across other jurisdictions. By fostering a safe environment and deterring fraudulent activities, Pennsylvania sets a standard for responsible gambling that aligns with the industry’s growth and sustainability.
Key Takeaways
- The PGCB has expanded its Involuntary Exclusion Lists to 1,379 individuals, focusing on protecting minors and enhancing industry integrity.
- Specific infractions, such as leaving minors unattended and engaging in fraudulent activities, are being met with strict enforcement actions.
- Ongoing vigilance and regulation are essential to the continued success and trustworthiness of the gambling industry in Pennsylvania and beyond.
