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Ohio Investigates Video Gambling Machines

OHIO -- As reported by the Bloodhorse: "The Ohio State Racing Commission has opened its own investigation into a state Department of Public Safety report that video gambling machines were operating in a bar on property that includes the Cedar Downs off-track betting parlor in the northwest portion of the state.

"The Ohio Department of Public Safety's investigative unit responded to an anonymous tip and visited 'The Thirsty Pony' in Sandusky Sept. 17. According to a report by the investigative unit, agents found four video slot machines that took cash and dispensed credits good for use in a gift shop or for trips to Las Vegas.

"An anonymous caller who tipped the department about the machines claimed some regular players received cash when they won games.

"George Sortino, the owner of the bar, told one of the agents money from the machines is combined with business revenue, the report said. Sortino told the agent profit from the machines is split 50-50 after expenses with Frank Meiers, the owner of Apollo Vending who is under indictment for money laundering and gambling in Lorain, Ohio, the report said.

"...Video gambling machines are illegal in Ohio, though the horse racing industry for years has lobbied for passage of legislation to make them legal at tracks..."

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