September 11, 2025

Gary Watts Challenges Arrest Over Private Poker Game

Columbia, South Carolina, September 11, 2025

News Summary

Gary Watts has filed a lawsuit against the Irmo Police Department and SLED over his arrest during a private poker game. The case questions the legality of such games in South Carolina. Watts argues that poker held in rented spaces is not illegal and cites previous rulings supporting his stance. He claims false arrest and malicious prosecution while seeking a jury trial. This lawsuit could have significant implications for gambling regulations in the state.

Columbia, South Carolina – Gary Watts, a local poker player, has filed a lawsuit against the Irmo Police Department and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) following his arrest during a private poker game last year. The case raises significant questions regarding the legality of private poker games in South Carolina.

Watts was among eleven individuals arrested while participating in a poker game at a rented office suite. Law enforcement utilized an informant who recorded the players using a wire, leading to the arrests. Watts claims that this action was unlawful, asserting that South Carolina law does not classify poker games held in private, rented spaces as illegal. Instead, the law specifically identifies certain locations, such as taverns and barns, as prohibited venues for gambling.

The basis of Watts’ lawsuit stems from a prior ruling by a state judge, who stated that poker games in rented office spaces do not violate state gambling laws. The lawsuit includes serious allegations against the law enforcement agencies involved, citing false arrest, malicious prosecution, and trespassing. Watts is seeking a jury trial and has not specified the damages he is claiming, but he has indicated that he is experiencing significant embarrassment and loss of professional opportunities due to the arrest.

In his lawsuit, Watts describes the law enforcement officers involved as “a crack team of gumshoes,” and criticizes their aggressive tactics. He emphasizes that poker serves as a social activity that does not harm the community, further arguing for its legality and acceptance within society.

The consequences of his arrest have significantly impacted Watts’ professional life. He held various reputable positions, including membership with the S.C. Coroners Association, which he lost as a result of his arrest. Ultimately, the criminal charges against him were dismissed following the judge’s opinion regarding the legality of the poker game.

In response to Watts’ claims, the Irmo Police Department and SLED have maintained that their actions were lawful. However, they have not yet provided a detailed response to the lawsuit filed against them.

Opinions on gambling laws in South Carolina are evolving. Recently, Judge Thomas “Billy” McGee noted that the state’s gambling legislation is outdated and should be revised to reflect modern practices. The implications of Watts’ lawsuit may potentially set a significant precedent regarding the regulation of private poker games within the state.

As the legal situation unfolds, the outcome of this case could influence not just Watts’ future but also the approach to gambling laws in South Carolina, reaffirming or challenging the status of poker as a recreational pastime.

FAQ Section

What is the basis of Gary Watts’ lawsuit?

Gary Watts is challenging his arrest during a private poker game, claiming it was unlawful based on South Carolina law, which does not classify poker in rented office spaces as illegal.

Who was arrested alongside Gary Watts?

Watts was one of eleven individuals arrested during the poker game at a rented office suite.

What allegations are raised against the Irmo Police and SLED?

Watts accuses the police and SLED of false arrest, malicious prosecution, and trespassing in his lawsuit.

What potential impact could this lawsuit have?

The lawsuit’s outcome may set a precedent regarding the legality of private poker games in South Carolina, possibly influencing future gambling regulations in the state.

Key Features of the Case

Feature	Description
Defendant	Irmo Police Department and SLED
Plaintiff	Gary Watts
Incident Date	Last year
Charges	False arrest, malicious prosecution, trespassing
Legal Venue	Rented office suite
Impact on Watts	Loss of professional opportunities and embarrassment
Judge’s Opinion	Prior ruling states poker in rented office is legal
Future Implications	Potential precedent for private poker game legality in South Carolina

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Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER

The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.

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