HALIFAX — Halifax police have determined that a violation of Nova Scotia's lottery regulations by a local legion does not constitute criminal wrongdoing. The investigation began after a complaint was filed in February concerning the Vimy 27 branch of the Royal Canadian Legion.

According to police, the fraud team concluded that the matter was better addressed under the Nova Scotia Gaming Control Act rather than through criminal charges. An agreed statement of facts revealed that David Long, a vice-president of the legion, claimed over $25,000 in winnings from two Chase the Ace lotteries he helped organize in 2023 and 2024.

The provincial investigation found that Long violated a specific provision of the Gaming Control Act. This law stipulates that individuals involved in conducting a draw or setting up the lottery cards are ineligible to hold a ticket for that lottery. As a result of this violation, Nova Scotia's gaming authority has prohibited Long from holding a lottery license.

Additionally, the Vimy 27 branch has been barred from obtaining a lottery license for three years and has been fined $500. The Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of the Royal Canadian Legion has not yet provided a comment on the situation.

This case highlights the importance of adhering to the regulations set forth in the Gaming Control Act to ensure fair play in lottery operations across the province.