The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has ordered OC Media Holding to close its One Country online raffle platform to players in Michigan.
As part of its ongoing efforts to combat unlicensed providers of games of chance, the Michigan gambling regulator issued a cease and desist letter to One Country, stating that its offering is illegal in the state.
The Arizona-headquartered company operates an online platform which provides entry into prize draws under monthly subscription plans that range from $4.99 to $75 per month, with prizes on offer including houses, cars and tickets to country music events.
The MGCB said that sweepstakes, which are classified as online lotteries and/or raffles, are not licensed in Michigan and are therefore illegal. The regulator added that One Country was in violation of numerous laws, including the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and the Michigan Penal Code.
The MGCB was prompted to investigate One Country following a tip-off.
“The Michigan Gaming Control Board will not, and does not, tolerate activities that circumvent our laws and threaten the integrity of the highly regulated gaming industry in Michigan,” said MGCB executive director Henry Williams.
“We are committed to upholding state law to ensure a fair and honest gaming environment for all Michigan citizens, and we will keep issuing cease-and-desist letters and taking appropriate legal actions to halt illegal gaming in the state of Michigan.”
The operator’s website now states: Void where prohibited, including but not limited to Michigan.