Report: PokerStars May Be in New Jersey in 2014

A report on CalvinAyre.com suggests that a new DOJ policy may allow PokerStars to resolve its outstanding federal legal issues. That could satisfy New Jersey regulators and allow the online gambling giant to begin operating in the state this year. PokerStars application for online gaming in New Jersey is currently suspended for two years.

According to an online report, a new policy by the U.S. Department of Justice could clear the way for PokerStars to clear up its licensing problems in New Jersey

CalvinAyre.com, citing unnamed sources, says the DOJ has adopted a new approach toward pending prosecutions of individuals in connection with online gambling. If those being prosecuted aren’t US citizens and the companies with which they are associated maintained no physical infrastructure within US borders, the DOJ will accept corporate pleas and fines to resolve all outstanding charges, according to the web site.

While the policy could affect many, it clearly could allow PokerStars’ founder Isai Scheinberg to settle his outstanding case with the DOJ. Scheinberg was indicted by the DOJ when it moved to shut down all internet gambling through foreign sites in the U.S. in 2011.

That outstanding indictment has been cited by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement as a major reason why it has placed PokerStars application for an online gaming license in the state on hold for two years.

Whether the report is true or not, PokerStars had planned to make a major investment in Atlantic City with its online partner Resorts Casino Hotel before its application was suspended and has vowed to work out its differences with the state.