Raffle canceled in campaign to raise money for police dog because of Utah’s antigambling laws

Utah antigambling laws kill raffle for police dog

SALT LAKE CITY — A community campaign to raise money to add a drug-sniffing dog to a Utah police department had to change course when leaders discovered a raffle — no matter how well-intended — was illegal.

The state’s strict antigambling laws prohibit giving up something of value in return for a chance at receiving something of value. That includes raffles like the one for the Lone Peak Police Department to get the canine officer.

Organizers and police realized the mistake late last week and pulled the raffle tickets. They are offering refunds on the $1 chances for a $1,000 shopping spree at a grocery store, but so far none of the people who bought the 500 tickets has asked for money back.

The campaign has raised about $3,500 of the $10,000 goal.