SEARCH NEWS:

 

Fraternity Poker Fundraiser May Be Illegal

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- A fraternity at the University of Tennessee says it plans to hold its poker tournament for the chapter's philanthropy despite indications from a state official the tournament constitutes illegal gambling.

The brothers of Pi Kappa Phi say the money they raise goes to the PUSH America foundation with help from Chris Moneymaker, the 2003 World Series of Poker champion.

Moneymaker is a former member of the UT chapter of Pi Kappa Phi. He gained national notoriety after defeating poker's greats in the 2003 World Series of Poker.

Pi Kappa Phi spokesman Steve Evans said the fraternity got clearance from university officials that the tournament would be OK.

But the director of charitable solicitations for the Tennessee Secretary of State said the tournament is an "unlawful event."

"Poker games would be considered a casino game of chance," Barbara Toms said. "It would be unconstitutional and prohibited."

Copyright © Las Vegas Sun. Inc. Republished with permission.

< Gaming News