Pennsylvania: Former Skill Games Exec Accused of Taking Bribes

Following a years-long investigation, several individuals and companies are reportedly facing charges of illegal gambling, money laundering, bribery and corruption in Pennsylvania.

Attorney General Files Charges

Early in 2024, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced an investigation into the former Pace-O-Matic executive, Rick Goodling. At the time, the IRS confirmed that more than $400,000 in cash and accounts belonging to the former executive and ex-state police officer were seized.

More recently, Goodling faced charges by the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office. In December, the Attorney General’s Office filed charges against the former Pace-O-Matic executive, alleging that he benefitted from more than $500,000 in kickbacks. The bribes, the charges claim, were received in exchange for quashing complaints of illegal gambling, as announced by the Pennsylvania Capital-Star.

Besides the former Pace-O-Matic executive, several employees of a Schuylkill County company called Deibler Brothers Novelty Co., are also facing charges. Prosecutors claim that those employees helped distribute illegal gambling devices across Pennsylvania.

The charges follow a years-long investigation by law enforcement. It was back in 2018 when Goodling retired from law enforcement and shortly after, he was hired by Pace-O-Matic. However, tips received by the FBI and state police resulted in an investigation launched against the executive in 2019. The extensive probe saw a police officer go undercover to help collect evidence against Goodling and the other people suspected of bribery and illegal gambling among other crimes.

Pace-O-Matic, Not Involved in Unlawful Actions

A spokesperson commented on the charges Goodling is facing, explaining that law enforcement notified the company that it isn’t targeted by the investigation into the former employee’s alleged actions.

In addition, the spokesperson confirmed that the company strengthened its national compliance team with the appointment of Frank Noonan, a former state police commissioner who also has experience with the FBI. “Mr. Noonan’s experience and reputation are unmatched, and we have tapped into his knowledge and leadership to enhance our compliance program,” the spokesperson said.

“While we are monitoring the situation, law enforcement has assured us that Pace-O-Matic is not involved in or connected with any of the alleged actions or charges facing Mr. Goodling,“

a spokesperson for Pace-O-Matic explained

In December, skill-based games secured a major win in Pennsylvania after a court overturned a Philadelphia citywide ban on such devices. The unexpected signals that lawmakers may consider legalizing skill-based games in an effort to generate new revenue.

Currently, skill-based games are not legal per se but rather can operate without restrictions considering that there’s no law that prohibits them or regulates them. Supporters of those devices, including small businesses such as restaurants, clubs and other outlets, claim that skill-based games help them generate extra revenue.

However, opponents argue that skill-based games are quite similar to slots. However, the view of Pace-O-Matic, a company that develops skill games, is quite different. The game developer argues that skill-based games are different from slots as they require an element of skill in order to win a prize. In contrast, the outcome of slot games is determined purely by chance.