The Michigan Gaming Control Board sent cease-and-desist letters to six online casinos last week. Fortune Horizon Casino, Goat Spins Casino, High Roller Casino, Slots.lv, True Fortune Casino and Vegas Gems Casino all got orders to stop operating in the state. None of these sites hold proper Michigan licenses.
“These sites try to attract players with flashy ads and promises of big wins, but the reality is far riskier: no oversight, no consumer protections and no guarantee you’ll ever see your money again,” said Henry Williams, MGCB’s executive director.
The operators could face legal action with Michigan’s Attorney General if they don’t comply. Williams made clear the board won’t back down on enforcement.
Why These Sites Drew Regulatory Action
Michigan law requires all online casinos to get licensed before accepting bets from state residents. These six sites skipped that step entirely.
The violations cover three separate laws. The Lawful Internet Gaming Act, Gaming Control and Revenue Act and Michigan’s Penal Code all apply here.
But it’s not just about paperwork. Unlicensed casinos don’t submit to independent testing. They skip responsible gaming standards too. And consumer safeguards? Those don’t exist on these platforms.
What the Cease-and-Desist Orders Mean
The MGCB calls this the “latest step” in its “relentless, ongoing crackdown” on illegal operators. That language suggests more enforcement actions are coming.
Licensed Michigan casinos must follow strict rules. They verify player identities, implement deposit limits, and offer self-exclusion tools. They also pay taxes that fund state programs.
Unlicensed sites offer none of these protections. Players who win big might never see their money. Disputes have no official resolution process.
How This Fits Michigan’s Enforcement Pattern
The MGCB has been aggressive about protecting its regulated market. On September 19, the board fined Caesars Sportsbook $100,000 after a tech error let someone deposit $2.1 million without actually transferring funds.
That bettor, Jeffrey Saco, placed over $88 million in wagers and withdrew nearly $600,000 before getting caught. He now faces eight felony charges. The incident happened back in April 2023, but the fine just came down.
Meanwhile, Michigan legislators are looking at new gambling options. Senator Veronica Klinefelt proposed Senate Bill 511 on September 22. That would allow social wagering contests across the state.
The combination of strict enforcement against unlicensed operators and potential expansion of legal options shows Michigan’s approach. Keep illegal gambling out while creating more regulated opportunities for licensed operators.
