July 7th, 2008
excerpt:
CENTRAL POINT — Police are warning local poker players to be mindful of state laws outlining the rules of hosting gambling games in private homes.
Jackson County sheriff’s detectives say they are keeping a close eye on a popular weekly Texas Hold’em poker game hosted by Richard Troutman, who operates a game out of his home on Beall Lane in Central Point.
Troutman hosts several games a week. In the back of his house he has set up two card tables in which up to 22 people can try their luck against the odds and each other for money.
“We just love to play poker here,” Troutman said. “Anyone can come and play, just as long as they don’t bring any trouble with them.”
Oregon permits social gambling, such as hosting poker, in a private home. However, there are rules that must be followed for the game to remain legal.
While it is legal to host a poker game, no one other than the players can profit from the winnings. That means the person hosting the tournament cannot charge a sitting fee, often called a “rake,” and cannot demand the players make donations to the house, according to the Oregon Department of Justice.
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MailTribune.com: Central Point poker game draws scrutiny
Author Contact Info: Chris Conrad
