The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist letters to offshore operators Lucky Tiger Casino and Rich Palms Casino for conducting illegal gambling activities in the Wolverine State.
An MGCB investigation found that the online casinos, operated by Alistair Solutions NV located in Curaçao, offer real-money gambling games such as slot machines, table games, and video poker to players in Michigan.
“The Michigan Gaming Control Board will continue to make it clear that any operator found to be operating unlawfully will face appropriate consequences,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said.
“This agency has zero tolerance for illegal gambling. We will continue to exercise our regulatory oversight and authority to protect the interests of Michigan citizens and licensed operators and ensure that all online gambling activities available here are compliant with the law.”
Lucky Tiger Casino, Rich Palms Casino Violated Michigan Gaming Laws
Both entities are in violation of the following Michigan gaming laws:
Lawful Internet Gaming Act – Internet gaming can only be offered by a licensed internet gaming operator. Only casinos that are currently licensed under the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act and federally authorized tribal casinos within Michigan can apply for an internet gaming operator license.
Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act – Gambling operators are prohibited from conducting a gambling operation without a license issued by the MGCB. A party who operates an unlicensed gambling operation is guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment for up to 10 years or a fine of up to $100,000, or both.
Michigan Penal Code – This document prohibits any form of unauthorized gambling involving consideration, prize, and chance. This includes “accepting money” or “anything of value” based on the outcome of an uncertain event.
Lucky Tiger Casino and Rich Palms Casino have 14 days from receipt of the letter to cease all illegal gambling operations that are currently available to Michigan residents. If Alistair Solutions NV fails to comply with the order, the MGCB could pursue legal action and penalties.
MGCB Sent Cease-And-Desist Letters To Other Operators
In February, the MGCB also sent cease-and-desist letters to the following operators:
- BetAnySports (BAS)
- CoolCat Casino
- Diamond Sportsbook International, d/b/a BetDSI.eu (BetDSI)
- My Dreams Casino
- NonStop Casino
- Palace of Chance
- Solar Game LTD and Busan Trade Office (Go Go Gold)
- WagerWeb
- Xbet Casino
“These unlicensed operators are not only in violation of Michigan’s laws but also pose significant risks to consumers by offering limited and often unreliable withdrawal options,” said Williams.
“Our role is to protect Michigan residents by ensuring that all online gambling activities are carried out legally and responsibly. These operators have 14 days to cease their illegal activities or face further legal action.”
A 2022 report from the American Gaming Association (AGA) estimated that Americans wagered over $510 billion annually with illegal and unregulated operators, including online casinos and sportsbooks.
Offshore gambling operators contribute to an estimated $13.3 billion in lost tax revenue annually, according to the AGA.
Jose is an iGaming analyst with wide experience within the sector. He has been working as content writer on casino and betting websites for more than 10 years, contributing on websites like Pokerlistings, Casinobee, Betpack among others, sharing his insights and perspective for the future ofthe iGaming market.
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