News

Ehlen guilty in illegal gambling trial

Photo: Stockbyte, Photos.com

Mar 16, 2013 at 7:03 am

ST. CLOUD, Minn. (KNSI) A Stearns County jury on Friday returned a guilty plea against a St. Cloud businessman charged with running an illegal gambling operation.

Steve Ehlen was convicted of four gross misdemeanors and four misdemeanors that accused him of runnning a lottery and operating a gambling establishment.

Ehlen's business--Triple Crown Sweepstakes--was raised by Minnesota Gambling Enforcment officials last summer. They seized computer terminals and other equipment.

Ehlen contended he was not running an illegal gambling enterprise--but was offering a sweepstakes that raised money for charity.

Ehlen represented himself at trial. The jury deliberated for about four hours yesterday before reaching their verdict.

Three co-owners of Triple Crown Sweepstakes also face charges.