Michigan Again Cracks Down on Offshore Casinos

MGCB Targets Illegal Operators

Both offshore outfits, operated by Alistair Solutions NV out of Curaçao, got nabbed after a tip led MGCB sleuths to their online slots, table games, and video poker, offered to Michigan players without a license. They’ve got 14 days to shut it down or face tougher heat.

“The Michigan Gaming Control Board will continue to make it clear that any operator found to be operating unlawfully will face appropriate consequences,” said MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams.

“This agency has zero tolerance for illegal gambling. We will continue to exercise our regulatory oversight and authority to protect the interests of Michigan citizens and licensed operators and ensure that all online gambling activities available here are compliant with the law.”

The stake is up to 10 years in prison or $100,000 in fines, or both.

Breaking the Rules

These casinos tripped over Michigan’s big three gaming laws. The Lawful Internet Gaming Act says only MGCB-licensed operators can deal with online games, and only with approved software.

The Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act bans unlicensed gambling ops, tagging violators with felony charges. Then there’s the Michigan Penal Code, which kills any unauthorized betting where cash swaps hands on a chance outcome. Lucky Tiger and Rich Palms missed all those marks.

Michigan’s legal online gaming pulled $1.9 billion in 2024 revenue, and unlicensed players like these threaten that pot. Alistair Solutions NV’s Curaçao base, beyond U.S. reach, doesn’t help, but the MGCB can still block their Michigan access if they don’t comply by April 16.

Miss the deadline, and legal action’s next.