In a recent crackdown aimed at protecting Michigan residents, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has issued cease-and-desist orders to five unlicensed online gambling platforms. These platforms—BoVegas Casino, BUSR, Cherry Gold Casino, Lucky Legends, and Wager Attack Casino—were found to be accepting wagers and deposits from Michigan residents without the necessary state licenses. Their actions violate several of Michigan’s laws, including the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and the Michigan Penal Code.

Henry Williams, Executive Director of the MGCB, emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “These illegal sites undermine the integrity of Michigan’s regulated gaming industry and put players at serious risk. We will not tolerate unlicensed gambling operations that exploit Michigan residents. Our top priority is to protect the public by enforcing the law and shutting down these illegal platforms.”

The MGCB’s investigations revealed that these operators were offering a wide range of gambling activities, including sports betting, slots, blackjack, and other casino games, all without proper oversight. As a result, Michigan residents who participated in gambling through these platforms were exposed to unreliable payouts, unfair gaming practices, and the risk of having no legal recourse in the event of disputes.

The Impact of Unregulated Gambling on Michigan Players

The five operators targeted by the MGCB have each been found to engage in activities that bypass Michigan’s strict gaming regulations. BoVegas Casino and Cherry Gold Casino were found to offer and promote slots and table games to local residents, ignoring Michigan’s licensure requirements. Similarly, BUSR and Wager Attack Casino were running sportsbook operations without the necessary consumer protections mandated by state law. Lucky Legends, on the other hand, claimed to provide a “VIP experience” with bonuses, but also failed to adhere to state regulations.

By allowing Michigan residents to gamble on these platforms, the illegal operators bypassed the protections that the state’s regulated gambling system offers. This includes ensuring fairness in gaming, overseeing player deposits, and offering consumers a clear path to resolve any issues or disputes. Without these safeguards in place, players face the risk of fraudulent practices and being denied access to their winnings or funds.

Williams further stated, “These illegal operations, whether offshore or operating without a Michigan license, exploit players and put them at risk. We will continue to take strong action to protect the integrity of Michigan’s gaming industry and to ensure that residents have access to safe, legal, and regulated gambling options.”

Cease-and-Desist Orders: Immediate Action Required

As part of their enforcement efforts, the MGCB has mandated that each of these operators immediately cease all gambling activities in Michigan. The cease-and-desist orders give the operators 14 days to comply with the MGCB’s directive or face further legal actions. If the operators do not comply within the specified time frame, the MGCB will collaborate with the Michigan Department of Attorney General to pursue additional legal measures.

This recent action follows the MGCB’s previous efforts to tackle illegal gambling, including similar cease-and-desist orders issued to other operators earlier this year. In June, the MGCB issued orders to Bonus Blitz Casino, DomGame, Royal Ace Casino, and others after they were found to be offering internet-based gambling without the necessary state approval. Similar actions were taken in May, when the MGCB addressed violations from platforms like You Wager, Bet Pop Casino, and Discount Wager.

Michigan’s Regulatory Framework for Online Gambling

Michigan’s legal framework for gambling is designed to create a controlled, fair, and regulated environment for residents who choose to engage in gaming activities. However, many offshore and unlicensed operators continue to target Michigan residents, offering their services without oversight or consumer protections. This undermines the state’s efforts to maintain a safe gambling market, where players can enjoy entertainment while being assured of fairness and security.

Ensuring Safe, Legal Gambling Options for Michigan Residents

The MGCB has made it clear that it will not tolerate illegal gambling practices that exploit Michigan residents. Their mission is to ensure that players have access to legal, regulated, and safe gambling options that offer consumer protections and fairness. By issuing cease-and-desist orders and enforcing the state’s gambling laws, the MGCB aims to maintain the integrity of Michigan’s regulated gaming industry and protect residents from the risks posed by unlicensed operators.

Moving forward, the MGCB will continue to monitor online gambling activity in Michigan and take strong actions against any illegal operators targeting residents. The board’s commitment to enforcing the law will help ensure that Michigan’s gambling environment remains safe, regulated, and fair for all players.