Undercover Operation Leads to Illegally Run Slot Machines
Unlawful bettoring uncovered on Lake Constance by two siblings
A local police officer, acting undercover as a customer, uncovered an alleged illicit slot machine during a routine inspection or targeted control at a gaming establishment in Überlingen, as reported by the Südkurier.
Due to its suspicious nature, the officer summoned backup and confronted the establishment's operator about operating an unauthorized machine.
Sibling Denials and Alleged Miscommunication
The establishment's operator claimed no responsibility, instead blaming their older brother for the illegal machine and other gaming devices. This brother, in turn, rented them to the younger sibling.
Legally, a permit from the Karlsruhe government presidency and the Überlingen city council is needed to run such slot machines. The younger brother had obtained the permit in 2018, but it was revoked in 2020.
Despite these facts, he denied ever receiving a letter from the responsible authority signifying the expiration of his permit. Both brothers argued that they were never informed, with the elder sibling confirming their statement, stating that they had not received any notification either:
Permits are typically unlimited. If otherwise, I would be notified and could then remove the machines. – Slot machine operator from Überlingen, elder brother of the gaming establishment operator, source: Südkurier
The brothers hypothesized a possible connection with the pandemic, suggesting they may have lost track and faced existential challenges during the lockdown.
Unauthorized vs. Illegal Slot Machines – What's the Difference?
In this instance, it remains uncertain if the machine was merely set up without a permit or if it was an illegal device altogether.
Unauthorized slot machines are often capable of lawful operation in Germany if a valid license is available. Such devices include age controls, ability to connect to the OASIS system for player self-exclusion checks, and more.
Illegal slot machines, however, lack design and programming suitable for the German market. They do not process player data, do not adhere to prescribed limitations, are prone to manipulation, and have exceptionally low payout rates.
Only One Brother Holds Responsibility
Local court judge Alexander von Kennel, of Überlingen, found reasonable grounds to suspect that both brothers were aware of their actions, but only the younger brother was convicted with a fine of 3,000 euros. Their older sibling avoided punishment at this time. Additionally, the confiscation of 47,000 euros in player winnings took place.
The judge voiced concerns that the brothers might have colluded, stating that further evidence may potentially incriminate the elder sibling. Moreover, other locations where they allegedly operated machines were also under investigation.
"Other locations where the brother duo has installed and managed machines have been discovered during the investigation, potentially implicating the older brother in future proceedings. In this individual case, however, only the illegal gambling in Überlingen is relevant to the current charges."
Despite the younger brother's claim of not receiving a permit revocation notice, online casinos in Germany require legal permits from both the Karlsruhe government presidency and local city councils, such as Überlingen.
Unfortunately, many online casinos in Germany, including some in Überlingen, have been operating illegally without the necessary permits, leading to undercover operations and subsequent legal consequences.
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