WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: “Skill” Game-Related Armed Robbery In Martinsville Highlights Need For Enforcement On Virginia’s Illegal Neighborhood Slots

A recent armed robbery in Martinsville, Virginia, has reminded Virginians of the dangers these machines pose to our communities and the need for strict enforcement against these illegal devices.

“Virginia Skill Game Player Goes Berserk After Losing, Faces Felony Charges”

A Martinsville man faces felony charges after violently vandalizing illegal slot machines at a local convenience store. After reportedly losing money, he returned armed with a gun and an angle grinder, terrifying staff as he held workers at gunpoint, demanding his money back before using the power tool to break into the machine.

“Henry County Gas Station Attack Rekindles Virginia Skill Game Debate”

The Martinsville attack reignited concerns around skill games in Virginia. More than an isolated incident, it underscores the growing risks tied to these illegal machines. This violent episode is the latest flashpoint in an ongoing call for removal from Virginia’s communities.

“Gas Station Incident Reignites Debate Over Virginia’s Skill Game Legality”

A Henry County gas station is under investigation after a man allegedly attempted to break into a skill game machine following a loss. The incident has reignited the ongoing debate over the legality of skill games in Virginia. Skill games, which resemble slot machines but require a level of intellect to win, are banned in the state.

The public and local organizations have had enough of these dangerous games.

VIRGINIA MOOSE LODGES: “Another day, another dangerous crime linked to illegal skill slot games in Virginia. How many more Virginians will be harmed before Virginia clamps down & prosecutes the distributors of illegal slots?”

(X Social Post, October 3, 2025)

VA ILLEGAL SLOTS: “This problem isn’t unique to Henry County. It’s happening ALL over VA. From Arlington to Lynchburg to Fredericksburg. We need enforcement.”

(X Social Post, October 3, 2025)

JANET S.: “These games don’t have the regulations and security that a casino has, you show ID into a place like Rosie’s. Some people will spend their last dime on those machines and borrow to keep playing, hoping for a dream win. Store employees can’t watch what they do and those machines too. I think stores are no place for them.”

(WSET Comment, October 3, 2025)

JACK W.: “It’s gotten out of hand.”

(X Social Post, October 6, 2025)

New polling from the American Gaming Association underscores what Virginians already feel: “skill” games don’t belong in gas stations, bars or local markets.

OPPOSITION TO “SKILL” GAMES: 67 percent of Virginians oppose allowing skill gamesin non-casino locations.

VOTERS SUPPORT CANDIDATES WHO OPPOSE NEIGHBORHOOD SLOTS: 62 percent of voters say they’d back a candidate who opposes skill game legalization.

The Bottom Line

The Martinsville attack shows what’s at stake when gaming machines flood our neighborhoods. These machines aren’t “harmless entertainment” – they attract crime, armed threats and public safety risks. The violence and crime surrounding these so-called “skill games” have sent a clear warning, and

Virginians don’t want neighborhood slot machines in their communities.