Derek Kelly claims poker is a skill game that gives every player an equal opportunity to win. While many agree with the 46-year-old club owner from central London, he will have a tough task defending his claim in the British courts.
Kelly has been accused of contravening the Gaming Act which says a licence is needed to host games of chance but not games of skill, like chess and quiz machines.
“Poker is a game of equal opportunity. If I sat down to play with you (Det Insp Darren Warner) nothing would detract from who is the best player other than skill.
“If you do not believe that, I could produce volumes to show you that the best players in the world continue to win competitions,” Kelly told police.
The trial was adjourned until Friday.
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