Martin: Recent Case a Reminder of the Reach of Gambling Underworld
The rapid spread of legalized sports gambling, now saturating television advertising, has not diminished the darker, illegal side of the betting world. Its persistence became evident this week in a Calgary courtroom.
A woman from the city pleaded guilty to criminal harassment of a man whose only mistake was vouching for a friend hoping to join the world of underground sports betting.
“The victim, whose identity is protected by court order, had referred a friend, Kyung Shin, to Chantelle But to help place illicit wagers on sporting events.”
The situation quickly escalated when Shin racked up debts totaling $110,000 to But’s associates in the gambling underworld before disappearing.
Legalization and Illicit Activity
The case underscores that despite gambling’s legal acceptance, shadow operations persist, drawing in unsuspecting participants and fostering financial and personal harm.
Summary
The Calgary case reveals that legalized sports gambling hasn’t curtailed the illegal betting networks that continue to trap individuals in debt and danger.