The Arizona Department of Gaming is trying to get ahold of an increase in illegal gambling in the state, as it has issued cease-and-desist orders against five operators.
Gaming officials sent the legal notices to the following betting companies: BetOpenly, Bookmaker, Club WPT Online Poker, Kutt Inc. and Raffle Creator.
The ADG is specifically scrutinizing each operator for its “promotion of gambling, illegal control of an enterprise and money laundering,” according to a Friday press release.
Jackie Johnson, director of ADG, said the action was taken to uphold Arizona law and protect current and future residents who bet.
“Our top priority is protecting Arizonans and I’m grateful for the efforts of our intelligence unit led by Chief Law Enforcement Officer Doug Jensen to do just that,” Johnson said. “Through these cease-and-desist orders we are putting operators on notice: their conduct runs contrary to Arizona law and they must stop promoting illegal gambling.”
BetOpenly, Club WPT Online Poker and Raffle Creator were all accused of enabling those under 21 to participate in their operations, while Kutt Inc. and BetOpenly were accused of their business dealings benefitting a third party, which is illegal in the state.
Arizona residents were advised by officials to make sure their gambling activities are being conducted through an ADG-approved operator, and the list can be found online.
The ADG is asking anyone with information about alleged illegal gambling activities to call 602-255-3886 or email publicaffairs@azgaming.gov. Residents have the option to remain anonymous when submitting tips.
