NCJ Number
98447
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 54 Issue: 4 Dated: (April 1985) Pages: 1-7
Date Published
1985
Length
7 pages
Annotation
A discussion of video games focuses on the features that distinguish a game designed for amusement from one that is really a gambling device and the implications of video game technology for the law enforcement and judicial systems.
Abstract
Casino-type video gambling devices dispense coins and are recognized as gambling devices. Thus, the crucial comparison is between noncasino devices, which do not dispense coins, and amusement video devices. Although gambling devices and amusement devices use the same electronic components, their programming determines whether the game being played is a game of chance or a game of skill. Gambling devices have a knock-off feature that removes any accumulation of credits left on the credit meters. The knock-off switch, the meters that record coins inserted and unused credits, and the video display credit meter all enable the owner to monitor the operation of the device. Another characteristic of a gambling device is that the time of play is short. Gambling devices are also based totally or mainly on chance rather than on the player's skill. However, manufacturers of noncasino video gambling devices disguise their devices as amusement devices so that they will not be classified as gambling devices. These devices pose problems for law enforcement because the legal and judicial systems have not clearly defined the elements that constitute a gambling device. Crimes committed to support a video game habit, school truancy, and public disturbance charges have been among the problems associated with video gambling devices and video arcades. Data tables and footnotes are supplied.