Irmo, South Carolina, September 11, 2025
News Summary
Gary Watts is suing the Irmo Police Department and SLED after he and ten others were arrested during a private poker game. The lawsuit questions the legality of such games in rented spaces in South Carolina, claiming that the police acted unlawfully based on previous rulings. Watts is seeking damages for false arrest, malicious prosecution, and trespassing, arguing that poker is a legitimate social activity without harm to society.
Irmo, South Carolina – Local poker player Gary Watts is suing the Irmo Police Department and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) following his arrest and the arrests of ten other players while participating in a private poker game. The legal action raises questions about the legality of private poker games in South Carolina, specifically in a rented office space where the arrests occurred.
The incident, which took place last year, stemmed from law enforcement’s use of an informant who recorded the players using a hidden device. According to Watts, the actions taken by SLED and Irmo Police were unlawful, claiming that the state law does not prohibit playing poker in a private rented space, as the law specifically targets illegal locations such as taverns and barns.
Watts’ lawsuit is grounded in a previous ruling by a state judge who opined that poker games held in rented office suites are legal in South Carolina. He is accusing the police and SLED of false arrest, malicious prosecution, and trespassing. In addition to seeking unspecified damages for the embarrassment and professional opportunities lost following his arrest, Watts is pursuing a jury trial.
In his lawsuit, Watts criticized the law enforcement officers involved, describing them as “a crack team of gumshoes” who conducted their operation with excessive aggression. He emphasized the role of poker as a legitimate social activity that poses no significant harm to society.
Watts’ arrest has led to significant personal repercussions, including the loss of professional roles that were vital for him, especially within the South Carolina Coroners Association. The charges against him were subsequently dropped after a judge ruled on the legality of playing poker in office environments.
Currently, both Irmo Police and SLED maintain that their actions during the event were lawful, but they have yet to provide a detailed response to Watts’ ongoing lawsuit. A recent judicial opinion from Judge Thomas “Billy” McGee pointed out that the gambling laws in South Carolina are outdated, suggesting that they should not govern modern practices.
The potential outcomes of Watts’ lawsuit may establish a significant legal precedent regarding the legality of private poker games in the state of South Carolina as society continues to evolve. If the court rules in favor of Watts, it could signal a shift in how such games are treated under the law, potentially encouraging others to engage in similar activities without fear of legal repercussions.
Key Facts Overview
- Plaintiff: Gary Watts
- Defendants: Irmo Police and SLED
- Claim: False arrest, malicious prosecution, trespassing
- Venue: Rented office suite in Irmo
- Charges: Dropped after a judge’s ruling
- Legal Precedent: Potential impact on future private poker games
Legal Background and Implications
As the case unfolds, it may prompt lawmakers to reevaluate South Carolina’s laws regarding gambling and poker games, particularly in private settings where individuals seek social interaction and entertainment. The outcome could influence similar legal challenges by others in the state facing accusations surrounding their private gaming activities.
FAQ Section
What is Gary Watts suing for?
Gary Watts is suing the Irmo Police Department and SLED for false arrest, malicious prosecution, and trespassing after being arrested during a private poker game.
What were the circumstances of the arrest?
Watts and ten others were arrested using an informant with a recording device who was present at the poker game in a rented office suite.
What has been the response from Irmo Police and SLED?
Irmo Police and SLED assert that their actions were lawful but have not provided detailed responses to the lawsuit at this time.
What could be the broader implications of this lawsuit?
The outcome of Watts’ lawsuit could set a precedent for the legality of private poker games in South Carolina, potentially leading to changes in the state’s gambling laws.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Plaintiff | Gary Watts |
| Defendants | Irmo Police and SLED |
| Legal Claims | False Arrest, Malicious Prosecution, Trespassing |
| Arrest Circumstance | Informant used in police operation |
| Outcome Impact | Potential legal precedent for private poker games |
| Judicial Opinion | Current gambling laws are outdated |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Herald Online: South Carolina News
- WLTX: Big Lottery Win in Poker Night Game
- WACH: New Bill for Casino Gambling in SC
- WYFF: SC Poker Player Wins Scratch Off
- SC Daily Gazette: Against Online Betting and Casinos
- Wikipedia: Gambling in the United States
- Google Search: Poker Laws in South Carolina
- Google Scholar: Poker Game Laws in South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gambling
- Google News: South Carolina Poker Laws
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