Defense attorneys representing individuals charged in connection with alleged illegal casino operations in Concepción, Chile, argue that damage to seized slot machines could weaken the prosecution’s case.
The investigation began in 2023 and led to multiple raids in 2024 targeting establishments operating gaming machines in downtown Concepción. The central legal dispute focuses on whether the machines constitute games of chance, which would fall under Chile’s casino regulation and be considered illegal outside licensed venues, or games of skill, as the defense contends.
At an upcoming hearing, defense teams are seeking authorization to have independent experts examine the machines. Attorney César Irribarra stated in court that many of the approximately 1,600 seized machines have suffered deterioration while in storage, potentially affecting their evidentiary value.
The case has remained under investigation for roughly a year and a half since formal charges were filed. A separate hearing in March is expected to address a possible extension of the investigative period.
Additional controversy has emerged over evidence handling. The Chilean Casino and Gaming Association, which is participating in the case as a plaintiff, reportedly covered the transportation and storage costs for the seized equipment.
Defense attorney Marcelo Villena described the arrangement as irregular, arguing that the involvement of a plaintiff in the custody process raises concerns about chain of custody safeguards.
Prosecutor Pamela Lillo has requested court authorization to dispose of the machines, a move supported by the association. Defense teams have formally petitioned National Prosecutor Ángel Valencia to guarantee preservation of evidence and proper forensic examination before any destruction occurs.
Under Chilean law, games of chance may only be operated by casinos licensed by the SCJ. Machines classified as games of skill fall outside that framework, making classification central to the case
