A group in the U.S. territory of Guam that opposes gaming has demanded an investigation of illegal gambling it alleges is taking place at a fairgrounds near Tiyan.
KUAM-TV reported that the group, Lina La Sin Casino, has contacted the territory’s Attorney General and Department of Revenue and Taxation to ask whether local authorities were giving permission for gaming activities during official fiestas. The group says such activities pose a threat to children.
The Pacific Daily News reported that the towns Sinajana and Talafofo were given permission to offer weekend gaming activities in conjunction with the St. Judge and San Miguel fiestas. Nearby Agana Heights held such activities last November and December.
Activities are being offered at the site of the 2016 Liberation Day Guam Island Fair, which ended in August.
Lina La Sin Casino alleges that the villages acted beyond the permission they were given and have allowed gambling parties that offer casino games such as craps, blackjack and Texas hold ‘em. The mayors, the group insists, are “continuing this activity despite numerous occasions where the people of Guam have resoundingly rejected casino gambling on our island.”
The group’s President Dr. Jose Cruz said, “It’s a long standing issue and it’s been a long standing issue since the first time we took a position. Again I repeat myself: It affects the children. And it appears to be continuing and we feel, for lack of better terms, that’s a farce.”
Cruz wrote the Mayor’s Council, GovGuam, “insists on continuing this activity in spite of numerous occasions where the people of Guam have resoundingly rejected casino gambling on our island.” He alleged the “mayors are abusing the permit initially granted, and appear to be extending the permit unilaterally, without formal authorization.”
Agana Heights Mayor and MCOG President Paul McDonald denied the allegations. “I believe we’re in compliance with the law. We do not allow any mayor to operate any casino if it’s not permitted by the governor,” he said.
One mayor claimed that Guam Governor Edward Baza Calvo gave the villages to use the facility for cockfighting and games of chance during the fiestas to raise money.
The Pacific Daily News quoted Sinajana Mayor Robert Hofmann: “Every district is different in size and capabilities. Some mayors have it there, some mayors don’t. This is another way of benefitting the community. At least it’s an option. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have any activities because I have no room in my center.”
