Julian Bargo Withdraws Lawsuit Against Sweepstakes Casinos and Major Tech Companies

Julian Bargo withdrew his lawsuit filed against the sweepstakes casinos High 5 Casino and WowVegas, as well as major tech companies Apple and Google.

In his lawsuit, he claimed that these companies facilitated illegal gambling by providing their platforms for hosting sweepstakes casino apps.

Details of the Lawsuit

Bargo filed the lawsuit in November 2024, claiming that he lost over $1,000 on several sweepstakes casinos, such as High 5 Casino and WowVegas. He argued that these platforms operate as illegal casinos disguised as social games.

The lawsuit also claimed that Apple and Google facilitated illegal gambling by allowing these apps on their app stores and enabling payments through their platforms.

As part of the lawsuit, Bargo brought Apple and Google under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), which is used to prosecute groups accused of engaging in fraudulent or illegal schemes.

Withdrawal of the Lawsuit and Possible Next Steps

After nearly five months with no significant developments in the case, Bargo filed a voluntary dismissal of the lawsuit in the New Jersey District Court. This filing was made before the defendants were required to submit motions to dismiss the case. Since the lawsuit was dismissed without prejudice, Bargo has the right to refile the lawsuit.

Despite the withdrawal of the lawsuit, the case highlights the ongoing legal battle regarding the legality of sweepstakes casinos and the role of digital platforms in their operation.

Legislative Efforts to Combat Sweepstakes Casinos

Although Bargo’s specific case has been closed, sweepstakes casinos still face legal pressure in various jurisdictions. Legislators in states such as New Jersey, Mississippi, and Maryland are attempting to introduce stricter regulations or outright bans on sweepstakes casinos.

These efforts are driven by concerns over illegal gambling, weak user protection mechanisms, and potential harm to vulnerable players, including minors.

Opponents of sweepstakes casinos argue that these platforms operate in a legal gray area, avoiding taxes and licensing fees that traditional casinos are required to pay. This has led to increased scrutiny from authorities.

Supporters of sweepstakes casinos, on the other hand, argue that these platforms provide legitimate entertainment and should be regulated rather than shut down.

Conclusion

While Julian Bargo withdrew his lawsuit, the fight over regulating sweepstakes casinos and their interaction with major tech companies such as Apple and Google continues. It remains unclear whether Bargo or other plaintiffs will file lawsuits again, but debates over the legality of these platforms are ongoing.