What Types of Gaming and Betting are Illegal in Ohio?

Notwithstanding recent legislation authorizing legal gambling in licensed casinos, such as Jack Casino in downtown Cleveland, unlicensed gaming or gambling is illegal in the state of Ohio. Common gambling crimes in the state include illegal gambling for profit; bookmaking (receiving or paying off bets); operating an unlicensed gambling house; public gaming; cheating or “fixing” sporting events to manipulate bets; and illegal bingo.

Gambling is often perceived as harmless fun, but gambling-related crimes are taken very seriously by the justice system. In fact, Ohio is one of the nation’s strictest anti-gambling states; while social gambling is allowed, gambling-related crimes can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the severity of the alleged offense. Defense for such crimes requires a Cleveland criminal defense firm with expertise in Ohio’s gaming law provisions and penalties.

Partners Mark Marein and Steve Bradley set the standard for defending gambling charges in Cleveland. Together they share 60 years of case preparation and litigation experience. You will not find another firm in Northeast Ohio better equipped to help you with your illegal gaming allegations. Contact Marein & Bradley today for a free consultation.