Betting on sporting events with friends is it legal or illegal in the USA?
I dont mean the kind of online betting, I mean like 2 guys that are friends and they place a $1000 bet on a game. Can I be arrested for doing that if cops found out about it? What I mean is like if you and a few of your friends got together in a bar and you each bet $100 on a sporting event. Can you be arrested for that?
I live in Ohio
Question asked by: john
Answer
The legality of betting on sporting events with friends in the USA can vary depending on the state in which you reside. In some states, such as Nevada, sports betting is legal and regulated, and individuals are free to place bets on sporting events with friends or through licensed sportsbooks. However, in many other states, sports betting is illegal, including betting with friends in a private setting.
In Ohio, sports betting is currently illegal, both in-person and online. Therefore, betting on sporting events with friends, even in a private setting, is also considered illegal. While the likelihood of being arrested for betting with friends is relatively low, it is still a risk that should be considered.
It is important to note that even if sports betting is legal in your state, there may be restrictions on betting with friends or other individuals. For example, in some states, only licensed sportsbooks are allowed to accept bets, while in others, individuals are allowed to place bets with friends or through pools, but not for profit.
It is always recommended to check the laws and regulations in your state regarding sports betting before engaging in any betting activities. If you are unsure about the legality of betting with friends or placing bets in general, it is best to consult with a legal professional.