Just read where the Chattanooga Police raided another poker game being held in a private home. When the first one went down I wondered why our city would waste taxpayer money raiding a private residence where people were playing a game? Then it hit me. When the police raid a poker game, they take the money.
Money on the table is what makes the game illegal in the first place. So, that being said, here is a tip that will keep your poker game legal and safer. Don't bring money to the game. Buy some good quality poker chips and bring your checkbook. Write the host a check for the amount you want to buy in for and get a check at the end of the game for any amount you might have.
If the game is raided, the fact that there is no money around, only chips, will make for a very weak case against you. The charges, which are misdemeanors in the first place, will probably be dropped and you wont be robbed of all your money by the police or other thugs.
F. Doug Craig
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Doug,
I don't do high stakes poker games (being a bit poor), but your suggestion might have some merit.
The down side could be that checks leave a paper trail.
Make sense?
Mark Rudisill
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Technically, the law is the law, although I prefer Bingo in the privacy of my home with my kids. And besides, what's wrong with our law enforcement enforcing other laws on the the book other than the usual traffic radar enforcement, drug busts and prostitution stings. I'm fairly sure the manpower cost is in the budget. Mr. Craig, since you mentioned 'wasting taxpayers' money, I prefer law enforcement allocate manpower enforcing the curfew law (hours) in the City Council, County Commission and School Board Districts 5, 6 & 9 neighborhoods. Afterall, there already is a law on the book to enforce.
In fact, years ago, my neighbors and members of the North Brainerd Neighborhood Association worked tirelessly with past elected officials to strengthen the school truancy law (back several terms ago.) In fact, being an active citizen in my community, I and the other residents eagerly await the upcoming City Council, County Commission, School Board and Mayoral District elections. Heads will roll from lack of productive and progressive leadership, community revitalization and neglected schools due to lack of maintenance upkeep and horrible stormwater flooding throughout neighborhoods. Again, heads will roll because of broken promises.
In closing, and with all due respect, Mr. Rudisill, you are not a 'bit poor' as you mention. LOL.
Cynthia Stanley-Cash