Watch for illegal gambling operations

KENTWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) - From basement parties to bowling alleys, the popularity of Texas Hold 'Em poker is off the charts. But unless you're a tribal-run casino or licensed by the state, gambling for money in Michigan is illegal.

"The misconception is that playing Texas Hold 'Em with your friends for money in your house is legal, but it's not legal," said Kurt OrOsz, who runs A-1 Bingo in Grand Rapids, a licensed gaming and supply company.

State police admit they're not likely to bust small home games, but they do take operations like the one they say was being run out of the Ramada Plaza hotel very seriously.

Twenty people are in custody for their alleged roles in connection with an illegal gambling operation at the hotel. State police told 24 Hour News 8 that topless entertainment also took place.

The owners of the hotel, 3333 28th St. SE, say they were misled by a client who rented out a meeting room and allegedly conducted the illegal activity.

Undercover agents have infiltrated illegal gambling parties at the Kentwood hotel on at leas three occasions. The company had advertised online as the Game Night Angels.

In addition to gambling for thousands of dollars, police say the parties included alcohol and adult entertainment. The women were sometimes fully nude and played games to get tips from clients.

"(There was) Twister, Jell-O shots and that type of activity," said Detective First Lt. Curt Schram, of MSP.

But there are legitimate poker games that earn significant money for local charities. A-1 Bingo runs several across West Michigan.

A legitimate game -- such as the one run out of Westgate Bowling Alley on Alpine -- always will have clear signage and keep a state license in clear view.

"The charities use the money and funds to help support the organizations, and then we're paid a percentage of those profits," OrOsz said.

But the business, he added, can be cutthroat. Illegal operations often poach customers from legal games, so OrOsz said clients should look for the signs and beware.