Reader's Digest Being Investigated Over Gambling Devices

Anyone who has gone to a fair or a fundraiser understands that the money generated probably goes to a good cause, but that does not matter in Connecticut where games of chance are illegal.

Reader's Digest is being investigated after Attorney General Richard Blumenthal received an anonymous phone call that gave him information that Reader's Digest supplied illegal gambling devices and a money wheel to a Connecticut high school.

The school, East Catholic High School, was holding a fund raiser, and according to reports, the money wheel and various games of chance were received for the fundraiser by the school, from Reader's Digest.

In Connecticut, any games of chance are illegal, and the only way they would be allowed is if a nonprofit organization sought permit, which would be issued by the Division of Special Revenue.

Charges could come down from the investigation as a misdemeanor, and could, if the accused is found guilty, come with a jail term or a fine, or both.

Blumenthal is also investigating other Connecticut organizations to determine whether they used the machines and gambling devices also.

Reader's Digest has been contacted as well and have been asked to turn over any information as to other times that the company may have supplied the money wheel and devices.



2007-10-31