Gambling Expert Prof. I. Nelson Rose Comments on Charges Against Poker Platforms

Professor I. Nelson Rose, a renowned gambling expert in the USA, has published an insightful article in his blog on the recent developments in the US, following the allegations and the indictment of online poker providers FullTiltPoker.com, PokerStars.com and AbsolutePoker.

In his blog, Professor Rose looks at the US legislation applicable to this case, among other things. He describes how the Wire Act is not applicable here, as it only refers to betting on sports events. For this reason, the allegations against the poker platforms are based on bank fraud, money laundering and bribing banks.

He anticipates a court process in the future, though not that the remaining accused who are currently outside of the US will appear in court.

The defendants could only be extradited to the USA if the allegations are based on actions which are punishable both in the USA and in the country of extradition.

The only existing agreement which allows extradition for "illegal gambling" is between the USA and Hong Kong. In Rose's opinion, all the other allegations aimed at the defendants result from the accusation of illegal gambling.

An out of court settlement is also unlikely according to Prof. Nelson Rose, as the US Department of Justice would be extremely likely to insist on an admission of guilt from the defendants. This would make it near impossible for the platform in question to gain a license in the USA, should US law permit online poker in the future.

Therefore the future development of this case remains uncertain.