If Virginia’s gray machines cross the line and transform into fully illegal gambling establishments, a Virginia police department is prepared to take action.
Two Norfolk vape shops have been charged by the Norfolk Police Department’s anti-crime division for engaging in illegal gambling activities, prompting the department to swiftly take action.
As the one-year reprieve for Virginia’s “gray machines” nears its expiration, crackdowns are intensifying. However, prior to the reprieve, numerous owners of these gambling devices were already operating them unlawfully.
As a result of the imminent ban on all machines, it is highly probable that Virginia will witness an increase in similar enforcement actions.
Norfolk PD actively pursuing illegal gambling
Gary machines function similarly to conventional slot machines, but they incorporate a debatable element of “skill” in their gameplay, which has placed them in a legally uncertain territory. As a result, they are commonly referred to as gray machines or skills games.
Lawmakers have implemented a crackdown on electronic gambling devices, granting them a temporary 12-month extension until July 1. As part of this initiative, operators must register each machine with the Virginia ABC (Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority). Furthermore, establishments such as bars, gas stations, convenience stores, and similar businesses are restricted to having a maximum of eight devices per location. Additionally, a monthly tax of $1,200 per machine is required.
Despite the fact that not all of the locations were adhering to the rules, two vape shop owners in Norfolk were recently charged by the police department due to reports of engaging in illegal gambling activities.
There are two vape shops available:
- The address of Dragon Vapes is 846 E. Little Creek Road.
- The address for Lucky Vape Lounge is 1202 E. Little Creek Road.
According to police reports, despite the Norfolk City Council’s reported denial of a conditional use permit to operate as a commercial recreation center with skill games, Dragon Vapes allegedly proceeded to install and offer these illegal games in June 2020.
Two individuals were taken into custody by the police in the most recent crackdown, as they were charged with engaging in illegal gambling activities. Additionally, the authorities confiscated gaming stations, cash, and computers.
According to allegations, Lucky Vape Lounge reportedly exceeded the allowable limit of eight machines it was authorized to operate.
Residents are urged by the police to promptly report any instances of illicit gambling occurring within businesses. To report such activities, individuals can contact the Norfolk Crime Line at (888) LOCK-U-UP or conveniently submit a tip via the P3Tips mobile app.
Illegal vs. legal options in Virginia
Virginia had limited gambling options for many years, with the Virginia Lottery and live horse racing at Colonial Downs being among the scarce choices available.
In 2018, historic horse racing (HHR) was legalized by lawmakers. These machines, similar to slots, are now available at Rosie’s Gaming Emporiums situated across Virginia. Furthermore, in 2020, the legalization of sports betting began (currently in progress) and the establishment of casinos is scheduled to commence in 2022 and 2025.
Virginia Governor Ralph Northam intends to endorse a bill that completely prohibits the use of gray machines, given the increase in legal and widely accepted alternatives.
In Virginia, the gray machines manage to generate over $70 million for COVID relief during the reprieve period. Legitimate operators, with Queen of Virginia Skill & Entertainment being the largest among them, held hopes that the substantial tax revenue would persuade lawmakers to establish a permanent status for the reprieve.
Currently, the legal gray-machine industry appears to be nearing its end in Virginia. Furthermore, Norfolk law enforcement has demonstrated that illegal operators have additional concerns to be troubled about.
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