The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) added more players to the involuntary self-exclusion list at a public meeting held on February 22, 2023.
Key takeaways:
- More names were added to the involuntary self-exclusion list
- Players committed various offenses at PA land-based casinos
Deputy Chief Counsel Chad Zimmermann presented reports and recommendations by the Office of Enforcement Counsell to place multiple individuals on the involuntary self-exclusion list. The PGCB unanimously adopted all motions.
Here are some details on each case.
Case details
Allen Anderson – June 2, 2021
It’s alleged that Anderson left an eight-year-old minor unattended in his vehicle while sports betting at Presque Downs and Casino. The ordeal lasted 9 minutes.
David Erkins – December 19, 2021
Erkins attempted to buy into a craps table at Rivers Casino in Pittsburg using counterfeit bills (later determined to be movie props).
John Mister – December 13, 2021
It is alleged that Mister past posted or pinched bets on four occasions while playing blackjack. He was criminally charged and paid restitution to the casino.
Juqea Sears – December 25, 2021
Sears left two minors, aged 13 and 5 unattended in a vehicle while gaming at Rivers Casino Pittsburg. In his defense, Sears says he takes full responsibility for his actions but didn’t know he wasn’t allowed to leave the children since the 13-year-old can babysit the 5-year-old at home.
Christina Zick – 2014
Zick took a wallet left by another patron on a slot machine at Sands Bethlehem.
The February 22 public meeting also saw requests from involuntary self-exclusion registrants to be removed from the list. These too were unsuccessful. The board has taken a firm stance on problem gambling since last year and will undoubtedly seek to ensure players and minors are protected.