Corruption Lives Within Alabama Gambling Scandal Lawsuit

Lawmakers in the state of Alabama are torn over a recent issue of gambling expansion. There are those that want reform in the way of legalized casinos, and those that would like to keep operating under the current system where the laws are undefined and the hometown gaming operators control the market.

Outsiders have long accused Alabama of having the "good ole boys" run their gaming operations. It is a situation, according to the accusers, similar to that of the mafia, only their tactics are political, not intimidation.

The news this week of Birmingham Mayor Larry Langford receiving special treatment at the Quincy's 777 Casino in Macon County back in August has given credence to the idea that politicians in the state are taken care of by the existing gaming establishments.

Langford, according to the most recent civil lawsuit, won a jackpot of $50,000 on August 28th, 2009. The lawsuit claims that the machines were rigged and that Langford was led to the machine that would pay the jackpot.

This is similar to allegations of bribery that surfaced last year involving the same type situation. These are allegations that outsiders for years have thought to be true, and now there may be some evidence of the corrupt gambling industry in Alabama.

Governor Robert Riley, perhaps ahead of the curve of people finding out about the corruption, has set up a task force earlier this year to start raiding what he believes are illegal video gambling establishments. After several raids, Riley's opinion has been challenged in court. The establishment owners believe under state law that the machines they are operating are legal.

Birmingham Race Course owner Milton McGregor owns both locations where Langford has won the jackpots. McGregor has been lobbying heavily for changes in Alabama gambling laws, and McGregor also has contributed greatly to Langford. That has led some to believe that McGregor may have arranged the jackpot wins as part of his political agenda to change the gambling laws.

September 30, 2009
Posted By Larry Rutherford
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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