Irmo, South Carolina, September 11, 2025
News Summary
Gary Watts, a local poker player, has filed a lawsuit against the Irmo Police and SLED, challenging the legality of his arrest during a private poker game. He argues that the game was held legally in a rented office space, contradicting law enforcement’s actions. The case addresses broader issues concerning South Carolina’s gambling laws and may set a precedent for private gaming regulations in the state.
South Carolina Poker Player Files Lawsuit Against Irmo Police and SLED After Arrest
Irmo, South Carolina — A local poker player has filed a federal lawsuit challenging the legality of private poker games in South Carolina after being arrested during a game held in a rented office space. The lawsuit, initiated by Gary Watts, seeks to address what he describes as unlawful actions by the Irmo Police Department and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) following his arrest last year.
Details of the Arrest and Legal Dispute
According to Watts, law enforcement officials arrested him and ten other participants while they were engaged in a private poker game at an office suite. Law enforcement used an informant, who wore a wire, to record the activities during the game. Watts contends that the arrest was unwarranted, as playing poker in a rented office space is not considered illegal under South Carolina law.
The legal basis for Watts’ claim rests on the interpretation of the state’s gambling laws, which specify that activities conducted in illegal locations such as taverns or barns are prohibited. A prior opinion from a state judge concluded that private poker games in rented office environments do not violate these laws. Watts argues that law enforcement actions ignored this legal precedent, leading to his unlawful arrest.
Legal Claims and Injuries
Watts has filed claims of false arrest, malicious prosecution, and trespassing. He is requesting a jury trial and damages, although the specific amount has not been disclosed. The lawsuit also details personal consequences experienced by Watts, including embarrassment and the loss of professional opportunities linked to his participation in the game, notably his previous roles with the South Carolina Coroners Association.
Law Enforcement Response and Criticism
The lawsuit describes the law enforcement response as unnecessarily aggressive. It characterizes the officers involved as “a crack team of gumshoes” who overstepped legal boundaries in their actions. Despite this critique, officials from the Irmo Police Department and SLED have maintained that their conduct was lawful and appropriate. They have yet to issue a formal response to the claims made in the lawsuit.
Broader Legal Context and Impact
The case arrives amidst ongoing discussions about South Carolina’s outdated gambling laws. Recently, a state judge, Thomas “Billy” McGee, highlighted the need for legal reform, noting that current laws do not reflect modern gaming practices and social activities. The outcome of Watts’ lawsuit could significantly influence the interpretation and enforcement of private poker games in South Carolina, potentially setting a legal precedent.
Significance of the Case
If successful, Watts’ legal challenge may establish that private poker games conducted in rented office spaces are lawful, clarifying ambiguities in state law. This case underscores ongoing debates about the regulation of social gambling activities and the reach of law enforcement authorities in private settings.
Next Steps and Possible Outcomes
As the lawsuit progresses, legal experts and community members will be watching closely. The case could prompt legislative reviews or calls for clearer regulation of private gaming, ensuring that law enforcement actions align with legal standards and individual rights. For now, the legal teams on both sides are preparing for further proceedings, with no immediate timetable announced for a trial.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Herald Online: South Carolina News
- WLTX: Big Lottery Win in Poker Night Game
- WACH: New Bill for Casino Gambling in SC
- WYFF: SC Poker Player Wins Scratch Off
- SC Daily Gazette: Against Online Betting and Casinos
- Wikipedia: Gambling in the United States
- Google Search: Poker Laws in South Carolina
- Google Scholar: Poker Game Laws in South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gambling
- Google News: South Carolina Poker Laws
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