Missouri AG Goes After Stores Operating “Illegal” Gambling Machines

Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway is delivering on her threats to go after small venues, such as gas stations and retail stores, that host gambling machines that her office contends are not regulated and breach consumer protection and gambling laws in the state.

Missouri’s AG Doubles Down on Opposition to Gambling Machines

Five such properties were named in the AG’s latest crackdown against the sector. On Tuesday, the AG’s office confirmed that five properties are sued in Dunklin County, including Discount Spirits and Tobacco, Kennett Liquor and Tobacco, and Laura’s Mini Mart in Kennett; and Dixie Package and Swindle’s Quick Shop in Malden.

In a statement shared with media outlets, Hanaway doubled down on her position, arguing that the shops were turning a “blind eye” to what she described as “illegal gambling,” and further facilitating the activity. 

“My office will hold any business accountable for profiting off unlawful activity, and we will do everything in our power to shut illegal gaming and gambling machines down,” Hanaway vowed. 

Hanaway is essentially picking up where her predecessor, Andrew Bailey, left off, after Bailey’s office ultimately decided against prosecution in the majority of cases brought to it, keeping with precedent. Such machines have been operating in the state, although the Missouri State Highway Patrol has investigated them over the past two decades.

The key issue has come from a lack of coordination between authorities, with investigators bringing their cases to prosecutors who have felt reluctant to pursue the matter further. For their part, the companies and businesses producing and utilizing these gaming machines have argued that they are keeping with the law. 

Gambling Machines in Missouri: Legal Status Unknown

In the face of a more serious challenge, this made sense. Hanaway, though, is set to completely change that by attacking small business owners first. There are reasons to feel emboldened as well.

In October, a federal jury agreed that the gambling machines manufactured by Torch Electronics met the legal definition of gambling.  In the meantime, residents remain split on whether a more decisive legal action should be pursued against gambling machines.

In the meantime, Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney Nicholas Jain has also filed criminal charges against the five businesses, adding to the civil penalties Hanaway’s office is seeking.