Michigan Gaming Control Board Issues Cease-and-Desist to Unlicensed Operator One Country
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has taken action against OC Media Holdings LLC, operating as One Country Give (One Country), based in Fayetteville, Arkansas.
One Country’s Alleged Illegal Sweepstakes Operations
According to the MGCB, One Country has been selling monthly memberships that provide entries into various sweepstakes games, which it advertises on its website and social media platforms.
The agency clarified that such sweepstakes are considered online lotteries or raffles, which are illegal in Michigan unless properly licensed.
The board’s decision to issue the cease-and-desist letter follows a comprehensive investigation into One Country’s operations. The MGCB stressed that it received a tip regarding the company’s activities, which prompted the investigation.
Regulatory Response and Legal Consequences
Henry Williams, Executive Director of the MGCB, emphasized the board’s commitment to upholding Michigan’s gaming laws. “The Michigan Gaming Control Board will not, and does not, tolerate activities that circumvent our laws and threaten the integrity of the highly regulated gaming industry in Michigan,” he stated.
The board made it clear that it will continue issuing cease-and-desist letters and take legal actions as needed to protect Michigan’s citizens from unlicensed gaming activities.
One Country has been given 14 days to comply with the cease-and-desist order. If it fails to do so, the MGCB indicated that it is prepared to collaborate with the Michigan Attorney General’s Office to pursue further legal action to halt the company’s operations in the state.
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