Pennsylvania operators fined for allowing bets on unapproved sporting event

The sanction was confirmed after the regulator approved a consent agreement presented by the Board’s Office of Enforcement Counsel (OEC).

The agreement was the result of negotiations between OEC and Mountainview Thoroughbred Racing Association, operator of Hollywood Casino Morgantown in Berks County, and its sports betting partner BetMGM.

The $7,500 fine was levied when BetMGM accepted and paid out wagers on the Victor Belfort v Evander Holyfield boxing contest on 11 September 2021 after the PGCB said that it had “specifically notified all operators that wagering on this event would not be permitted”.

In total, 76 wagers were accepted by BetMGM, according to the watchdog.

Last month, the PGCB fined Parx Casino $10,000 for allowing an 18-year-old to access the casino and gamble at gaming tables.

The regulator said casino personnel permitted the individual to enter the gaming floor and place bets. This breached Pennsylvania law that states players must be at least 21 to legally access the casino floor and gamble.

The fine was presented by the regulator’s OEC and issued to Greenwood Gaming and Entertainment, which operates the casino.