Torch disagrees, saying its machines “fall outside the definition of a ‘gambling device’ under Missouri law and are entirely legal.” In response to their spread, the Missouri Gaming Commission deemed the types of machines being distributed by Torch as “gambling devices,” which are prohibited outside of licensed casinos. Players who win money can cash out and get paid by the store cashier. A player inserts money, selects a game and decides how much to wager. The company paid $10 each for the decals and was cleared to place them in the various establishments on July 22.Īpproval of the decals came amid a rise in concern by some state officials about the spread of illegal gambling machines. Records show Torch applied for special amusement device decals in mid-June. Louis License Collector Mavis Thompson gave Torch Electronics permission to place the machines in scores of gas stations, restaurants and small grocery stores across the city. Louis.Īccording to a review by the Post-Dispatch, St.
JEFFERSON CITY - The same clout-heavy company installing unregulated and potentially illegal gambling terminals across Missouri has placed an estimated 52 machines within the borders of St.
