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The Tennessee Conservative Staff –

Online betting and sports gambling company Bovada has been fined for illegal gambling in the state.

According to the Tennessee Sports Wagering Council, the company has failed to comply with cease-and-desist letters that have been sent to the Costa Rica-based operator. The company is not licensed to operate within the state.

In an investigation, the council was able to place bets on the site three different times, as recently as October 16. Tennessee’s Sports Gaming Act allows the council to impose a fine on companies who accept bets without the proper license.

Executive Director Mary Beth Thomas says the council recommends that any users from Tennessee withdraw their money from the site. 

“Tennessee sports bettors need to know that just because they can access a sports betting website or app inside Tennessee’s borders does not mean it is licensed to do business here,” Thomas said.

The Council says they are continually working with law enforcement agencies at both the state and federal levels to put a stop to illegal betting sites.

“Our primary role is the protection of the public interest through a safe, regulated environment,” said Thomas.

While the site claims to be U.S.-based, it is actually registered offshore, it also states that it is licensed and regulated by the Union of the Comoros.