KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) – Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson has announced a joint enforcement initiative with Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway to remove illegal gambling machines from gas stations, bars, and other businesses across the county.
Business owners have until July 1, 2026, to remove the devices. After that date, owners who have not complied could face charges including first-degree promoting gambling, second-degree promoting gambling, and possession of an illegal gambling device.
The initiative follows a federal court ruling last month that confirmed slot machines and other gambling devices operating outside of licensed casinos violate Missouri’s gambling statute. Johnson said the ruling eliminated any remaining legal gray area…