I live in New York City where, I’m pretty sure, sports betting is illegal. Today I read in the newspaper that my beloved team, the St. Louis Rams, is currently rated at 40-1 to win the Superbowl. Sounds like alluring odds, especially given my blind, knee-jerk team loyalty. I believe in my team, damnit!
If I wanted a piece of the action, I’m sure I could find some online betting site headquartered in Aruba or somewhere that would take my bet. But would it be legal?
Go Rams!
I think the answer is a big no that you cannot bet legally via the Internet if it is illegal where you live. On the other hand it is extremely unlikely that you would ever be prosecuted. On the other hand if you are cheated it is questionable if authorities would pursue your case (there is a nice Latin phrase which I have forgotten for the doctrine of leaving illegal transactions where they are found). Furthermore, if you ever aspire to political office or a high level security clearance it might conceivably become an issue. Now here’s an interesting angle. What if you legally place your bet in Las Vegas, and then return to NYC and subsequently become a winner. Do you break the law by claiming your prize? Does it matter if the money is sent to NYC or if you travel back to Vegas?
I’ll take your action. I’m hoping the Steelers can do it, but if they don’t there are a few teams I’d pick ahead of the Rams.
Vinny will be by later to see ya.
I dont know about the legalities as I suspect it has never been prosecuted yet.
there is a section on the implications of various existing laws at http://www.4online-gambling.com/legal.htm (vested interest so take with grain of salt). The bottom line is that existing laws dont seem to cover online gambling very well.