In the UK, a man has pleaded guilty to offences under the Fraud Act 2006 and the Forgery and Counterfeiting Act 1981 following a Gambling Commission investigation.
Kieran Whatley made false documents, including a forged copy of a Gambling Commission casino operating licence, which he provided to individuals on the assurance that the paperwork could assist them to legitimately offer poker at club premises in Southampton and the Blackpool area.
The Commission, initially working with Hampshire Police, took action after a concerned club owner was unable to verify Whatley’s licensed status when checking the Gambling Commission’s published licence register.
The case represents further progress in the Commission’s efforts to support its local partners in tackling illegal poker. In a number of cases during the past 12 months, including in Reigate and Hackney, licensing authorities have addressed illicit schemes.
Nick Tofiluk, director of regulatory operations at the Gambling Commission, said: “Only licensed casino operators can offer commercial poker in Great Britain. Club owners should assure themselves they are meeting the legal requirements.”
