New Jersey regulator suspends PokerStars application
State regulator has suspended PokerStars New Jersey licence application for two years citing concerns over founder Isai Scheinberg
New Jersey’s Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) has suspended PokerStars application for a licence in the state for two years, citing concerns over PokerStars founder Isai Scheinberg.
The regulator’s decision was based primarily on the unresolved federal indictment against PokerStars founder Isai Scheinberg for the alleged violation of gambling laws.
The DGE highlighted Scheinberg’s alleged violation of the Illegal Gambling Business Act and the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) as a key factor in its decision to suspend the application.
It was also concerned about the alleged involvement of certain PokerStars executives in internet gaming operations in the US post UIGEA.
“The DGE has determined that the application PokerStars casino service industry licensure will be held in a suspended status for a period of two years,” said DGE spokeswoman Lisa Spengler.
“The Division, within that period, may consider a request for relief to reactivate the application if significantly changed circumstances are demonstrated at which time the Division’s investigation of PokerStars and its affiliated entities and associated individuals will be resumed to assess suitability,” she added.
PokerStars had provisionally partnered with the Resorts Casino in the Garden State after its bid to purchase the Atlantic Casino Club fell through earlier this year.
In September it announced plans to build a $10m poker room at the Resorts Casino pending being granted a license from the regulator.
PokerStars spokesman Eric Hollreiser said the firm was disappointed with the suspension, but remained in “open dialogue” with the DGE.
“We note that the DGE will resume the review of our application if our circumstances change,” Hollreiser said.
“We will remain in open dialogue with the DGE and will update them on changes in our situation as they occur,” he added.
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