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Nearly two years after law enforcement and the Michigan Gaming Control Board found illegal gaming machines in a convenience store in Wyoming, MI, justice has been served. Kind of.
Gurjinder Singh, a 32-year old Grand Rapids man, was sentenced for operating a Gambling House Permitting for Gain in a Kent County court. Judge Steven M. Timmers ordered Singh to pay a $500 in fines, fees, and court costs. The sentence was a result of a plea deal that dropped charges down to a misdemeanor.
In February of 2024, state officials and law enforcement raided Pfeffer’s Party Store, a Wyoming liquor store at 1054 Burton Street SW. Regulators from the MGCB found two slots-like machines that were configured to allow customers to win gift cards. It was determined the store’s owner did not have a gaming license to operate the machines legally.
Case ‘sends a clear message’
Michigan residents who play gaming devices that are unregulated by the MGCB are at risk. Any winnings or losses would not be protected by law. If disputes arose over payment or non-payment, consumers would be on their own.
Both Michigan online casinos and land-based casinos are legal in the state with gaming licenses.
Despite the light sentence, MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said the case was a reminder that owners operating illegal gambling machines will face consequences when caught.
“This sentencing sends a clear message that illegal gambling will not be tolerated in Michigan. We encourage all business owners to follow the law and remind the public that unregulated gambling puts players and communities at risk.”
Illegal gaming establishments often attract other unlawful activity, Williams added
“Illegal gambling operations may appear harmless, but they can contribute to other forms of crime, lack consumer protections, and divert revenue away from community priorities. We appreciate the strong collaboration with the Department of Attorney General and local law enforcement in bringing this case to a close.”
