The legal proceedings, instigated by the plaintiff Billi Jo Woods, purports to charge Bovada with running an unlawful gambling establishment within the state, leading to substantial monetary losses for its users.
Litigation Targets Bovada and its Affiliates for Suspected Gambling Infractions
The litigation implicates Morris Mohawk Gaming Group, together with Alywin Morris, Calvin Ayre, and Harp Media BV, as defendants. Bovada, recognized for its broad range of offshore sports betting and online casino options, is purported to provide gambling facilities that contravene federal law by functioning within the US borders.
The lawsuit, lodged in the Eastern District of Kentucky, pursues class certification and aims to reclaim damages exceeding $5 million, as cited by Legal Sports Report. The core of the plaintiff’s accusations is situated within a Kentucky gambling loss recovery statute from the 1800s, which enables individuals who have incurred losses due to gambling to sue for remuneration. Kentucky law offers the provision for tripling of damages in certain scenarios.
The grievance hinges on the contention that Bovada’s operations have breached Kentucky law and exploited thousands of patrons. The plaintiffs intend to reclaim both the financial losses suffered by individuals and the legal expenses related to the case. The lawsuit depends on federal diversity jurisdiction, which facilitates the resolution of state law contentions in federal courts.
Kentucky Legal Proceeding Mirrors PokerStars Settlement
Billi Jo Woods, a Kentucky inhabitant, alleges to have lost thousands of dollars wagering on Bovada’s platforms. The lawsuit further implicates Morris Mohawk Gaming Group, a firm headquartered in the Kahnawake Mohawk Territory in Quebec, Canada. The group purportedly garners significant revenues from various internet domains, including those associated with Bovada.
Bovada was purchased by Morris Mohawk Gaming Group (MMGG) in 2007, securing online gaming business and licensing rights for North America.
The Kentucky litigation mirrors prior legal proceedings, notably the settlement between Kentucky and PokerStars, where an akin loss recovery statute was instrumental. As the case evolves, the results might have the potential to revolutionize the accountability and legality of offshore gambling establishments, impacting both gamers and operators alike.