Computer Problems Lead to Kentucky Domain Case Delay
There will be no decision Wednesday to determine if some 141 online gambling domains are to be seized by the commonwealth of Kentucky.
Computer issues have caused delays at the Franklin County Courthouse, Gambling911.com learned Wednesday.
Much of the Internet gambling sector awaited news all day Wednesday after circuit court Judge Thomas Wingate determined he would need until October 15 to render a decision.
A decision is expected as soon as Thursday morning.
Last month, a Judge Wingate granted a request by the governor to have 141 Web site names used by online gaming operations transferred to the state's control. The action was filed by a Chicago law firm on behalf of Gov. Steve Beshear (D), who was elected in part on the strength of a promise to bring casino gambling to the state.
The domains include some of the most popular online gaming sites on the Internet, including UltimateBet.com and FullTiltPoker.com.
GoDaddy.com, the world's largest domain registrar, was one of those that turned over to the commonwealth the certificate for a handful of domains including Cake Poker and Doyles Room. What happens to these domains will depend on a decision to be handed down by the judge.
Christine Jones, general counsel for GoDaddy.com, the registrar used by 20 of the 141 domains named in the judge's order, told the Washington Post the company tried to walk a line between complying with that demand and defending the rights of their customers, noting that the casino site owners did not have an opportunity to present their side of the case at the hearing in which the judge ordered the transfer of the domains.
Sources close to Gambling911 have indicated that the Judge has been studying this matter extensively and realizes the global ramifications that stretch far beyond his jurisdiction.
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Christopher Costigan, Gambling911.com Publisher