Local News in Brief : Ruling Expected in Gambling Case
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A Superior Court judge has heard arguments in Los Angeles from attorneys for seven gambling clubs trying to prevent the county from shutting down three popular Asian card games.
County officials are attempting to permanently halt the playing of the so-called “Asian games”--Pai Gow, Pan Nine and Asian Poker--by convincing Superior Court Judge Curt Lewin that the card games are prohibited.
Lewin heard arguments from Deputy County Counsel Kevin Brazile and attorneys for the card clubs. His ruling is expected by early next week.
Seven card casinos in southeastern Los Angeles County offer the games, which generate large profits that have become an important source of tax revenues for such cities as Bell Gardens and Commerce.
Lewin must decide whether the three fast-paced games can be considered “banking games,” which are prohibited by state law. In banking games--the type played in Las Vegas--players compete against the house.
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