Pennsylvania cracks down on illegal betting tied to youth sports events

From Venezuelan bars to US families, illegal bets on kids’ games sparked a statewide crackdown. Who’s next in Pennsylvania’s gambling purge?

, and Administrator

2025 December 15 . 4:47 PM

1 min read

In this picture there is a man who is wearing sixteen number jersey, helmet, short and shoe. Beside... — In this picture there is a man who is wearing sixteen number jersey, helmet, short and shoe. Beside him we can see another man who is wearing blue jacket, glass, helmet, trouser and standing near to the windows. At the top we can see audience sitting on the chair and watching the game. At the bottom there is another man who is wearing twenty six number jersey and holding a stick. In the bottom left corner there is an umpire was standing behind the glass. On the right we can see the companies advertisement board.

Pennsylvania cracks down on illegal betting tied to youth sports events

Pennsylvania authorities have cracked down on illegal betting and casino violations in recent weeks. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) took action against unlicensed operators, banned patrons for neglecting children, and fined a licensed provider for security lapses. The moves follow a broader investigation into illegal wagers on youth sports events.

The PGCB uncovered illegal betting on the Little League World Series, which is banned under state law. Investigators found that unlicensed operators, including a group of Venezuelan nationals, took wagers on the semifinal games. Among those involved was Julio’s Bar in Anzoátegui, Venezuela, which accepted bets from US players and families.

The crackdown highlights Pennsylvania’s strict stance on illegal betting and casino misconduct. Illegal operators, like those found on betonline or stake casino, face no legal obligation to follow state rules, leaving licensed businesses subject to fines and bans. The investigations and penalties aim to enforce compliance across the gambling sector.