Two Defendants Plead Guilty in Cellular Bank Illegal Gambling Operations in Flint
In a significant crackdown on illegal gambling, two defendants, Linos Antonio Kas-Mikha, 52 of Grand Blanc, and Robert Jamerson, 55, of Saginaw, pled guilty on October 16 to operating an unlicensed gambling operation at Cellular Bank in Flint. According to a press release issued earlier this week, the guilty pleas were the result of a joint investigation by the Michigan Department of Attorney General and the Michigan Gaming Control Board (“MGCB”).
“The Michigan Gaming Control Board takes safeguarding the integrity of gaming in our state very seriously,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said. “The guilty pleas by the two defendants involved with the Cellular Bank case send a clear message that operating a gambling operation without a license will not be tolerated.”
Both defendants were charged under Michigan law, which imposes severe penalties for unlicensed gambling, including up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $100,000. They each faced multiple charges, but additional counts were dismissed as part of their plea agreement.
“My office works collaboratively with the Michigan Gaming Control Board to shut down illegal gaming venues all across the State,” said Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. “We are grateful to see this matter resolved with these convictions and remain dedicated to enforcing our state gaming laws as a matter of both consumer protection and public safety.”
The conviction of those who chose to start an illegal gambling operation in our city, is a win for the people of Flint,” said Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley. “We appreciate the efforts of the Michigan Gaming Control Board and all other law enforcement agencies involved in removing this criminal enterprise from our community and the threat it brings to residents. This should be a lesson to others that those who break the law and prey on our community will be held accountable.”
Kas-Mikha’s sentencing is set for November 25, while Jamerson will be sentenced on December 2. The MGCB urges anyone aware of illegal gambling activities to report them at 1-888-314-2682 or via email.
Gun Lake Tribe and Casino Launch Annual “Stuff the Trailer” Donation Drive
According to a press release, the Gun Lake Tribe and Gun Lake Casino have kicked off their annual “Stuff the Trailer” donation drive, aimed at supporting the Wasauksing First Nation in Parry Sound, Ontario. This initiative collects clothing, non-perishable food, and personal items for underprivileged communities.
“This annual event is one of the most important and heartfelt efforts we at Gun Lake Casino have the privilege of participating in,” said Sal Semola, Chief Executive Officer of Gun Lake Casino. “It holds a place of great importance to the Gun Lake Tribal Community to help their relatives in less fortunate communities in Canada and the United States.”
Donations will be accepted from November 1 to November 30 at the Gun Lake Tribe’s
Government offices and the Gun Lake Casino. Participants aged 21 and older who donate new or lightly used items can earn free slot play vouchers, matched dollar-for-dollar based on the value of their contributions, up to $100 per day. A valid receipt is required to claim the vouchers.
The Ogitch-E-Daa Society, the Tribe’s veterans’ organization, will deliver the donations in mid-December. Acceptable items include winter clothing, toys, non-perishable food, household items, and hygiene products, with a focus on seasonal needs.
For donation locations:
- Gun Lake Tribe Administration Building – 872 Mission Dr., Shelbyville, MI
- Gun Lake Casino Rewards Centers – 1123 129th Ave., Wayland, MI
Four Winds Casinos Raises $15,000 for Berrien County Suicide Prevention Coalition
The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi’s Four Winds Casinos proudly announced a successful fundraising effort, raising $15,000 for the Berrien County Suicide Prevention Coalition (“BCSPC”). This contribution aims to enhance emotional wellness resources and prevent suicide in Berrien County.
The funds were generated through a Celebrity Dunk Tank event on September 19, where team members had the opportunity to dunk Four Winds executives. Participants purchased balls to throw from various distances, with proceeds from the event supplemented by an additional donation from Four Winds Casinos.
Commenting on the donation, Brittany Frenchko, Chairperson for the Berrien County Suicide Prevention Coalition said, “I want to express my sincere gratitude to Four Winds Casinos for their donation of $15,000 to the Berrien County Suicide Prevention Coalition. Their continued support year after year is truly inspiring.”
Mary Smith, Chief Operating Officer of Four Winds Casinos added, “Four Winds Casinos is very proud of the giving spirit of our team members. We have been involved in supporting so many important causes and organizations over the years, and we sincerely appreciate the efforts of the Berrien County Suicide Prevention Coalition to provide critical resources to help prevent suicide.”
Recent data from Suicide Awareness Voices of Education, SAVE.org, indicates that suicide remains a significant public health issue, ranking as the eleventh leading cause of death in the U.S., with over 49,000 lives lost in 2022. For more information on BCSPC, visit berriencares.org.
Global Gaming Associations Untie to Tackle Industry Challenges
On October 9, 2024, the American Gaming Association (“AGA”), European Casino Association (“ECA”), and Betting & Gaming Council (“BGC”) announced a strategic partnership through a memorandum of understanding (“MOU”) aimed at addressing critical issues in the global gaming industry.
The collaboration focuses on combating illegal gambling, enhancing responsible gaming practices, fostering innovation, and improving security. “This new partnership is a significant step forward in our collective efforts to advance the legal gaming industry and protect consumers around the globe,” said AGA President and CEO Bill Miller. “By sharing our unique resources, we will expand our fight against illegal gambling to new fronts, work together to strengthen responsible gaming, and innovate around business best practices.
“By fostering dialogue and cooperation across borders, the AGA, ECA, and BGC are taking a proactive approach to safeguarding the integrity of the legal gaming industry and ensuring its continued growth and success,” Miller added.
The MOU establishes a framework for joint research projects and knowledge sharing among the three organizations. “The European Casino Association stands united with the AGA and BGC in its commitment to addressing the key issues facing all gaming industry stakeholders”, stated Erwin van Lambaart, Chairman of the European Casino Association. “The ECA fully backs this initiative and supports the ongoing efforts to rigorously combat illegality within our industry, continuously strengthen player protections and security, and ensure the creation of an environment that fosters innovation and growth within the gaming community. On behalf of the ECA, I look forward to participating in the forthcoming law enforcement roundtable and to sharing the benefits of these learnings with our members.”
The first initiative under the MOU will be a law enforcement roundtable scheduled for January 2025. This event will gather industry leaders, law enforcement, and regulators to discuss the effects of illegal gambling and explore strategies for improving cross-border communication and solutions to these challenges.