Legislative changes made in 2023 have rendered Skill Games illegal within our community. We understand the impact this may have had on business owners’ operations and livelihoods, and since then, have permitted a grace period to allow our businesses in the community to adapt to this new legal framework.
Over the last few months, the Henrico County Police Division has worked with the Henrico County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office to determine a plan to address this new law. Subsequently, we’d like to share with you the next steps.
The Henrico County Police Division will continue educating businesses about the enforcement of illegal skill games. Businesses are being provided several signs and are highly encouraged to place on the gaming devices explaining why it is out of service.
Enforcement
In the event a business is found in violation of §18.2-325, officers will address the concern with the business owner and any possible felony violations will be addressed after consultation with the Henrico County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.
Criminal charges may include:
- §18.2-326: Playing these “skills games” (Class 3 misdemeanor)
- §18.2-328: Being an operator of an illegal gambling enterprise, activity, or operation (Class 6 felony)
- §18.2-331: Illegally possessing gambling devices and operating the devices for the advancement of unlawful gambling activity (Class 1 misdemeanor)
Please note, any person operating a skill game device, or devices, may be subject to a civil proceeding (§ 18.2-331.1) seeking:
- A civil penalty in the amount of $25,000 per gambling device,
- Seizure of the gambling device
We appreciate your cooperation and understanding in this matter. Together, we can ensure that our businesses align with the updated legal requirements while continuing to serve our community.
If you’d like to file a complaint regarding a violation, please either email Henrico Police at [email protected] or text Virginia State Police at “VSPGaming” followed by your tip to 847477.
