UK pair first to be charged over video game gambling site

Craig Douglas and Dylan Rigby are believed to have become the first people in the UK to have been charged with offences under the Gambling Act.

Both men appeared at Birmingham Magistrates Court last week, charged with promoting a lottery and advertising unlawful gambling.

Douglas, who publishes gaming videos on YouTube under the name ‘Nepenthez’, has also been charged with inviting children to take part in gambling activities.

The case, which was brought forward by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), has been adjourned until October 14.

The UKGC recently issued a warning to parents whose children participate in online video games, saying that they can be drawn into betting on “skins” betting on virtual goods such as weapons or clothes.

Related article: UKGC addresses concerns over in-play betting