[opendtv] U.S. Steps Up Push Against Online Casinos by Seizing Cash

U.S. Steps Up Push Against Online Casinos by Seizing Cash

By MATT RICHTEL
May 31, 2004

Federal law enforcement officials routinely seize money they suspect 
is connected to activities like money laundering, terrorism or drug 
smuggling. But in early April, United States marshals seized $3.2 
million from Discovery Communications, the television and media 
company, in an aggressive effort to crack down on a new target, 
Internet gambling.

The money initially belonged to Tropical Paradise, a Costa Rica-based 
Internet casino operation, which in October paid Discovery for 
television spots to advertise an online poker room, 
ParadisePoker.com. According to court documents, the government 
seized the money and told Discovery, which is based in Silver Spring, 
Md., that it could be party to an illegal activity by broadcasting 
such advertisements.

Federal prosecutors contend that online gambling sites are illegal, 
but the offshore casinos fall outside their jurisdiction. So for 
nearly a year, the government has been trying to curb the sites' 
activities by investigating and pressuring American companies that 
provide services to offshore gambling sites on the theory that they 
are "aiding and abetting" the operations.

Until now, the effort has largely involved seeking information from 
American companies, including major broadcasters, Web portals and 
industry consultants. The seizure of money significantly escalates 
the government's attack.

...

http://www.nytimes.com/2004/05/31/technology/31gambling.html
 
 
 
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