Gaming Company Loses Appeal Against Hefty Fine

A gaming enterprise faced defeat in its legal dispute against a substantial penalty levied by the gaming authority. The enterprise contended that the sanction was excessively severe, but the court held a different view.

In September 2021, the Gambling Commission imposed a £5.85 million (approximately $7.25 million) fine on Daub Alderney, alleging the firm had faltered in its social responsibility and anti-money laundering obligations. Daub Alderney protested and escalated the matter to court, asserting that the fine was exorbitant and disproportionate to the transgression.

However, Judge Findlay remained unconvinced. After examining the evidence, she ruled in favor of the regulatory body, declaring that the fine constituted a “just and suitable reaction” to the company’s shortcomings.

“This company’s record is extensive,” she noted, “with multiple serious infractions, mirroring similar problems in 2018 that also resulted in a significant penalty. There’s nothing novel here to suggest the regulator erred.”

She further stressed that the Gambling Commission operated within its jurisdiction and discharged its legal duties in issuing the fine.

Sarah Gardner, the Commission’s deputy chief executive, expressed approval of the court’s ruling, stating that while penalties are not imposed casually, the Commission will not shy away from taking measures against operators who disregard the regulations intended to maintain the safety and integrity of gambling.

The company’s 2021 violations involved breaches of its licensing agreement, specifically regarding anti-money laundering procedures and responsible gaming policies.

Pace Gaming held numerous internet wagering platforms, including aspers.com and kittybingo.com. Between January 2019 and March 2020, they faced difficulties for not adequately preventing excessive gambling among users. The Gaming Commission, acting as a regulatory body for gambling, conducted an inquiry and uncovered multiple issues. Notably, amidst these events, Pace Gaming was acquired by a separate entity known as Rank Group in October 2019.