Marion County Prohibits Use of Gambling Machines at Internet Cafés
By Jessica Torrente
February 3, 2021
The Marion County Commission voted unanimously Tuesday to prohibit the use of simulated gambling devices for commercial purposes.
The county sheriff’s office recommended the action because of what it said was an increase in violent crimes because of simulated gambling devices at internet cafés.
According to the ordinance, simulated gambling devices include any computer-operated games – particularly slot machines – that may deliver the person playing a payoff.
Internet cafés are considered hotspots for crime because of practices like keeping cash on hand and lacking properly trained security, Sgt. Paul Bloom, the public information officer for the sheriff’s office, told WUFT News.