South Carolina's high court says that organized poker games are illegal, even when they happen in a private home.
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COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- South Carolina's high court says that organized poker games are illegal, even when they happen in a private home.
The state Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that state law prohibits wagering on Texas Hold `Em, even though it's a game of skill.
During a raid on a home near Charleston in 2006, police seized several thousand dollars in cash and a small amount of marijuana, ticketing about 25 people for illegal gambling.
A local judge found five men guilty, but that decision was overturned by a circuit court judge. State prosecutors appealed, and the high court heard arguments in 2010.
Justices said Wednesday the convictions should not have been overturned.
Prosecutors could not immediately be reached. An attorney for the men would not comment.
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