Lottery Officials Say Charity Gambling Illegal

West Virginia Lottery officials say “casino night” fundraisers conducted by charitable organizations are illegal.

But the Lottery doesn’t have any prosecutorial authority in such cases. Lottery director John Musgrave says county prosecutors have shown little interest in pursuing charges against members of local charitable organizations.

The Charleston Gazette reports that the Lottery Commission discussed the issue on Monday during a regular meeting.

Commission member David McCormick said raising awareness would help solve the problem. He said charitable groups don’t know that “casino night” events are illegal.

Musgrave says the Lottery may need to ask the Legislature to give it authority to crack down on such events.

State law prohibits possession of roulette wheels and other gaming devices that aren’t licensed by the Lottery.