Kentucky Court Blocks Seizure Of Gambling Domain Names

Jan 22, 2009 - 3:51:20 PM

The internet poker industry breathed a hugh sigh of relief on Tuesday, when a three judge panel ruled that Kentucky will not be allowed seize 141 international online gambling domain names. The judges decided 2 to 1 that internet domain names are not gambling devices, so are not illegal under Kentucky state law.

"It stretches credulity to conclude that a series of numbers, or Internet address, can be said to constitute a 'machine or any mechanical or other device" concluded Judge Michelle Keller.

The dispute began late last year when the state hired a law firm to bring proceedings against online gambling companies, with Governor Steve Beshear spearheading the campaign that many feel was desiged to protect the states influential racing and land gambling industries.

In mid September, Judge Thomas Wingate ordered to allow the state to seize the domain names of the allegedly illegal sites. Unless poker websites such as PokerStars, Ultimate Bet, Full Tilt Poker, and Doyles Room were able to block Kentucky residents, they risked losing their domain names worldwide.

It is expected that Governor Steve Beshear will appleal the ruling to the State's Supreme Court.

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