Share 
State of Play
- A former Kinston, NC, City Council candidate, Quarla Blackwell, faces multiple criminal charges linked to an alleged illegal online casino operation run through Facebook.
- This case highlights ongoing challenges in regulating online gambling activities within the U.S. digital landscape.
Quarla Blackwell, 51, who previously ran for Kinston’s City Council and is a known community activist, has been arrested and charged with four counts of money laundering and two counts of gambling.
Authorities allege she operated an illegal online casino using Facebook as a platform to promote and facilitate server-based electronic games. These included games where players wagered money or credits to spin virtual reels and participate in digital “fish table” games involving virtual projectiles targeting animated objects for prizes.
The investigation remains open, and police have not ruled out additional charges. Following her arrest, Blackwell posted a frustrated message on Facebook questioning the criminalization of these games. North Carolina has not legalized real-money online casinos.
Charges for operating illegal gaming can include money laundering
This case underscores the legal risks tied to unregulated digital gaming platforms, particularly those hosted on social media.
Operators running unauthorized casino games face significant consequences, including money laundering charges, which may prompt more cautious industry conduct.
Local enforcement actions like this contribute to the growing regulatory environment around online gambling, impacting player access and shaping operator compliance strategies.
Bettors and operators alike should stay alert to evolving laws to ensure safe and legal gaming experiences.
Based on reporting by WITN and Gaming America.
