The Hoke County Sheriff’s Office announced on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, that recently, there has been confusion about the legalities of Video Gaming Machines in Hoke County. At this time, it is NOT legal to operate these types of establishments. As stated, in North Carolina General Statute 14-306 1A, it is illegal to have any slot machine or video gaming device that displays video poker, video card games, video keno, video bingo, video craps, or video lotto.

The devices also may not simulate any type of slot machine or pot-o-gold machines. It is also illegal for cash pay outs at any such establishment. It is in violation of ABC laws to consume and/or sell alcohol where these machines may be located.

It is also illegal to operate server-based games of chance. These are found in many “internet cafe” establishments. It is also illegal to manufacture, house, transport, or work on such devices unless it is for a company located outside of North Carolina.

Per North Carolina statute 14-307 and the issuing of permits; There shall be no state, county, or municipal tax levied for the privilege of operating the machines or devices the operation of which is prohibited by G.S. 14-304 through 14-309.