In an effort to combat the rise of illegal gambling activities in the state, the Colorado Division of Gaming has launched a new awareness campaign aimed at educating the public about the dangers of participating in illegal gambling operations. With the legalization of sports betting in Colorado in 2019, the state has seen a surge in gambling activities, both legal and illegal. With this increase in gambling comes a rise in criminal activities such as money laundering, fraud, and organized crime.
The new awareness campaign, titled “Play by the Rules, Stay Out of Trouble,” will include online and social media advertisements, as well as billboards and posters placed in high-traffic areas throughout the state. The campaign will also feature public service announcements on radio and television stations, as well as outreach events at community centers and schools.
According to the Colorado Division of Gaming, the goal of the campaign is to inform the public about the risks associated with illegal gambling, such as financial loss, addiction, and potential legal consequences. Illegal gambling can also have negative impacts on communities, such as increased crime rates and decreased property values.
“We want to make sure that Coloradans understand that there are legal options for gambling in the state, and participating in illegal operations can have serious consequences,” said John Smith, director of the Colorado Division of Gaming. “By increasing awareness and educating the public about the dangers of illegal gambling, we hope to decrease the prevalence of these activities in our state.”
The campaign will also provide resources for individuals who may be struggling with gambling addiction or other related issues. The Colorado Division of Gaming has partnered with local organizations and treatment centers to offer support and assistance to those in need.
In addition to the awareness campaign, the Colorado Division of Gaming is increasing enforcement efforts to crack down on illegal gambling operations. The division is working closely with law enforcement agencies to identify and shut down illegal gambling establishments, as well as targeting individuals who are involved in these activities.
“We are committed to protecting the integrity of the gaming industry in Colorado and ensuring that all gambling activities are conducted in a safe and legal manner,” said Smith. “By working together with the public and law enforcement, we can effectively curb illegal gambling and create a safer environment for all Coloradans.”
The “Play by the Rules, Stay Out of Trouble” campaign is set to launch next month and will run throughout the year. The Colorado Division of Gaming is urging the public to report any suspicious gambling activities to their office or local law enforcement agencies. By working together, we can keep illegal gambling out of Colorado and ensure a brighter future for our communities.
