Baton Rouge, LA - The Louisiana Gaming Control Board (the Board) announced earlier this week a series of decisive enforcement actions to combat the rise of illegal offshore wagering and unauthorized online sweepstakes operations targeting Louisiana residents.
The Board exercises regulatory authority, control, and jurisdiction over all aspects of gaming activities and operations under the Louisiana Gaming Control Law (La. R.S. 27:1 et seq.). As part of its statutory mandate, the Board is responsible for ensuring the ongoing suitability of all gaming licensees and permittees and eliminating criminal and corrupt influences from Louisiana's regulated gaming industry.
In coordination with the Louisiana Attorney General's Office and the Louisiana State Police, Gaming Enforcement Division, the Board has taken a firm stance against illegal gambling operations that violate state law and jeopardize the integrity of the regulated market.
Most notably, the Board recently issued a cease-and-desist order to Harp Media B.V., doing business as Bovada, requiring the company to immediately cease illegal online gambling activities within Louisiana. Today, in a continued show of enforcement strength, the Board issued more than 40 additional cease-and-desist letters to offshore wagering platforms and online sweepstakes operators whose business models have been found to circumvent Louisiana gaming laws and regulations.
"These actions send a clear message," said Christopher B. Hebert, Chairman of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board. "Louisiana will not tolerate illegal operators who put our citizens at risk and undermine the fairness and integrity of our gaming industry. We will continue to use every enforcement tool available to protect the public and uphold the law."
The Board is committed to maintaining a safe, legal, and responsible gaming environment in Louisiana. Additional enforcement actions will be taken as necessary to ensure full compliance with state gaming laws and to protect Louisiana patrons and licensees.
