Bovada is the essence of the offshore gaming community. Owned by Harp Media B.V. out of Curaçao, Bovada offers sports betting and an online casino, both unlicensed and illegal in the United States.
On May 29, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) sent Bovada a cease-and-desist letter. The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection’s Gaming Division expects to follow suit before the end of June.
The Department sends out cease-and-desist letters anytime it receives a consumer complaint or becomes aware of an illegal gaming operator, a representative confirmed, as per Sports Betting Dime. Bovada operates in most states despite its illegal status. But the company banned gamblers from Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Maryland and Nevada when those states passed legislation to end their operation.
Michigan gave Harp Media B.V. 14 days to do the same—prevent their residents from playing on Bovada or face legal action. Harp Media has not responded yet. According to the MGCB, Bovada violates several laws.
- Lawful Internet Gaming Act: Online gaming may only be available through a licensed internet operator.
- Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act: Prohibits gambling operations without a license issued by the MGCB. Penalties for violations include up to 10 years in prison or a fine up to $100,000 or both.
- Michigan Penal Code: Prohibits illegal gambling,
