You asked if it is legal to own or possess an antique slot machine.

DISCUSSION

The law prohibits owing or possessing slot machines regardless of their age.

It is a class A misdemeanor to knowingly own, possess, make, buy, sell, rent, lease, store, repair, or transport any gambling device. The law defines "gambling device" as any device that gives the right to money or something of value through the operation of chance (CGS §§ 53- 278c and 53-278a(4)). A class A misdemeanor is punishable by up to one year in prison, a fine of up to $ 2,000, or both.

The law states that gambling devices are common nuisances and, if found on a place known or suspected to be a gambling premise, are subject to seizure. Further, under the law, there is no property right in any such gambling device, except the right of possession belonging to an officer enforcing the gambling law (CGS § 53-278c).

There are exemptions for (1) devices used for charitable gaming, (2) devices manufactured with the public safety commissioner's approval for out-of-state use, and (3) training employees of Foxwoods (CGS §§ 53-278c and 53-278g).

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