The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) is continuing its crackdown on illegal gambling activities in the state. The MGCB sent a cease-and-desist letter to Papaya Gaming on Thursday after the agency received an anonymous tip. Then, cease-and-desist letters were also sent to Ace23 and Ace Per Head, the MGCB said on Friday.
After an investigation, the MGCB determined Papaya Gaming, based in Israel, has been operating illegally by offering mobile apps "21 Cash," "Bingo Cash," "Bubble Cash," and "Solitaire Cash" within the state.
Ace23 and Ace Per Head are located in Costa Rica and operate Ace23.ag, a sportsbook and casino service provider that caters to bookies. While licensed in Canada and Costa Rica, the company is not licensed in Michigan.
“The Michigan Gaming Control Board is committed to safeguarding the integrity of legal gaming in the state and protecting consumers from illicit offshore operations like Ace23,” Henry Williams, executive director of the MGCB, said in a press release.
“Illegal gambling is not tolerated in Michigan, and we will take all necessary actions to protect our residents from such unlawful practices.”
Regulators in the Wolverine State have now warned seven companies for illegal activities.
The MGCB said Papaya Gaming is in violation of the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and the Michigan Penal Code. All of these laws prevent companies from offering unauthorized gambling.
In response to the cease-and-desist letter, Papaya Gaming said it's reviewing the matter.
“Papaya complies with all applicable laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which it operates,” the company said. “We look forward to addressing the matter in due course with the Michigan Gaming Control Board. We are confident that Papaya will continue to present lawfully in Michigan.”
Busy 2024
Michigan and Massachusetts have emerged as states where regulators are cracking down on illegal activities. This year, the MGCB has sent cease and desist letters to PredictionStrike, Stake.us, and VGW, sweepstakes company OC Media Holdings, and the offshore giant Bovada.
“The MGCB remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding Michigan’s laws and regulations and will continue to actively monitor and enforce compliance within the state to ensure a fair and secure gaming environment for all,” Williams said.
