Cherry Master/Poker Machines in MD

[PoolHawk21]

I am immensely interested in a discussion of the pros and cons of cherry master/poker machines in pool rooms in Maryland. The legality is questionable at best, with different opinions of their legality coming at me from all sides. What doesn't seem to be in question is that they provide a decent income for the room, and seem to be almost mandatory equipment.

If I lease the machines from a vending company, who assumes the risk if I were to get pinched for paying out?

What is the worst case scenario, as a room owner, if I got pinched?

Do you have these machines (in MD), do you pay out (like anyone will answer that on a public forum!), are they worth the risk?

Basically, my vending company wants me to put some machines in, and explained a very round-about story concerning the legal aspects. I just need some real opinions and advice. Thanks.

 

[Morgantownfats]

I am immensely interested in a discussion of the pros and cons of cherry master/poker machines in pool rooms in Maryland. The legality is questionable at best, with different opinions of their legality coming at me from all sides. What doesn't seem to be in question is that they provide a decent income for the room, and seem to be almost mandatory equipment.

If I lease the machines from a vending company, who assumes the risk if I were to get pinched for paying out?

What is the worst case scenario, as a room owner, if I got pinched?

Do you have these machines (in MD), do you pay out (like anyone will answer that on a public forum!), are they worth the risk?

Basically, my vending company wants me to put some machines in, and explained a very round-about story concerning the legal aspects. I just need some real opinions and advice. Thanks.

We had the "Grey" machines in WV for years before the state leagalized them. i never heard of any busts because of them. Mostly if the bar owner didnt know u u didnt get paid on hits. They say right on the front Amuesment only. As far as to who gets pinched if you would get busted. thats up in the air. Dependes on your state and the gambling laws. I would consult an attorney just to be safe

 

[ChesapeakeBlrds]

Make sure your vending company has a fat pocket and pays off the right people at the right time. I would advise against it since the risk is quite high. Plus we have legalized slots in Maryland, soon enough Arundel Mills casino will open, why gamble illegally when you can gamble legally and get free drinks doing it.

 

[PoolHawk21]

Tough Call

It's really a tough decision. One on side I really need the extra income right now, but on the other hand I don't really need to get shut down for having these machines, either. The vending company looks pretty tight and "in the know" - after all it's their machines that are going to get confiscated.

 

[cueandcushion]

It's really a tough decision. One on side I really need the extra income right now, but on the other hand I don't really need to get shut down for having these machines, either. The vending company looks pretty tight and "in the know" - after all it's their machines that are going to get confiscated.

Yes "their" machines get confiscated. You get the IRS interested. If your only option is to pursue illegal activities, why are you wanting to be in business or airing this in public for that matter?

 

[jimmyg]

Yes "their" machines get confiscated. You get the IRS interested. If your only option is to pursue illegal activities, why are you wanting to be in business or airing this in public for that matter?

Many, certainly not all, would also have a moral issue as well.

J

 

[The Pool Hall]

Many, certainly not all, would also have a moral issue as well.

I guess I don't have a Moral....If I can legally do it to make money I will try it. Contact someone in your state thats over the gaming industry and ask them on the legality. After you have that answer then you can make your choice.

 

[Nostroke]

They can be a HUGE moneymaker. There are casinos all over florida but just in West Palm, i know 2 guys that have lost several thousand in them in one night in pool rooms. I never hear of busts- I think they are worth the risk.

Edit-Sorry- im not a room owner.

 

[jimmyg]

Many, certainly not all, would also have a moral issue as well.

I guess I don't have a Moral....If I can legally do it to make money I will try it. Contact someone in your state thats over the gaming industry and ask them on the legality. After you have that answer then you can make your choice.

I'm not making any judgements here, just stating that I'd prefer making my money in other ways.

That being said, I've known room owners in Florida that virtually pay their rent strictly with the income from one or two machines.

PS: I am not a room owner.

J

 

[JamesJ]

suggestions

I've dealt with these in the past, I used to be a vendor and provided/serviced these. Laws may be different since they are governed by state and local. If you can do it, definitely do it. I know many businesses that only stayed in business for this. PM me for more info.

1. Check with local police government, call them and ask them what the cost is for the 'amusement permits' are. Don't lie or withhold, they will find out, it's much better to ask up front. These are yearly fees. If you know any local cops, ask them. They may just say 'no way' and if so, do not do it.

2. If you can afford to purchase your own, do so, but absolutely set up a separate business and tax ID for them. Make sure you claim SOME income and PAY the taxes on the income. Put the business in someone else's name if possible. This is especially true if you have a liquor license, I don't recall recall if that was mentioned. ***note: Using a vendor that provides the machines will reduce any legal liability, but at a cost. That's a personal decision you would need to make.

3. Customer Service...Give food/drinks away to 'good' players.

4. PM me for my recommendations on setting the configurations the machines.

Note1: I'm not going to bother getting involved in any discussion around the 'ethics' of such a decision. Many people 'gamble', low and high. All betting on pool or local Friday poker games is illegal. It's illegal because taxes are not collected. If you have moral objection to gambling, don't gamble. Don't impose your morals on others. Live and let live.

Note2: Having poker machines, at least in my state, is not illegal. It's only illegal to pay off if you don't have a casino license. They reality is, they (local government and IRS) don't really care IF you pay TAXES on income claimed from them.

 

[PoolHawk21]

Good Stuff

I appreciate everyone's opinions and input on this. My vendor seems willing to take all or most of the liability and sems to be well placed in the business. I still don't think I am going to go for them at this time - but I sure could use the extra $$ right now!!
Thanks again to everyone for contributing information.

 

[8&snap]

I am immensely interested in a discussion of the pros and cons of cherry master/poker machines in pool rooms in Maryland. The legality is questionable at best, with different opinions of their legality coming at me from all sides. What doesn't seem to be in question is that they provide a decent income for the room, and seem to be almost mandatory equipment.

If I lease the machines from a vending company, who assumes the risk if I were to get pinched for paying out?

What is the worst case scenario, as a room owner, if I got pinched?

Do you have these machines (in MD), do you pay out (like anyone will answer that on a public forum!), are they worth the risk?

Basically, my vending company wants me to put some machines in, and explained a very round-about story concerning the legal aspects. I just need some real opinions and advice. Thanks.

It all depends where your at,balto.county will cut your nuts off,get busted 3 times & the address is baned from any amusement games(property has to change hands). Balto. city is your best bet for video poker,cherrie masters,ect, seems everyone involved looks the other way & they dont seek you out like the county does.Vendors will pay a fee up front for the location, if your who i think you are & own the room i think you own, it used to be N/f vending that had that location,dino who was murdered was a very good friend for 40 years & i seen him offer up to 10k just to get the location + a percentage per dump.