Study highlights risks of igaming in Laramie County, Wyoming
According to the results of a study published by data analyst Datacorp and shared by the Cheyenne Police Department, online gamblers in Laramie County pose a greater risk of incidents of depression, anxiety, and addiction.
The gambling sector in Wyoming has seen a fast expansion, with online sports betting being the sole form of legal online gambling. However, illegal online casino games remain accessible, as websites quickly reappear under new IP addresses after being shut down.
The study found that online gamblers play longer, exceed budgets more frequently, and face strained relationships, increasing addiction risks.
Datacorp Chief Operating Officer Susan Janke noted that online platforms lack spending “bumpers,” enabling seamless money refills.
Young men aged 18–29 are particularly vulnerable, with 29% of men and 26% of women in this group reporting multiple gambling-related issues. Despite higher risks, 73% of gamblers are reluctant to seek help, and many are unaware of local resources.
The study suggests professional staff training, support groups, and financial planning resources.
Laramie County receives about US$70,000 annually from online sports wagering taxes to combat problem gambling. Cheyenne Regional Medical Center and Volunteers of America Northern Rockies are collaborating to study and address the issue.
In addition, the Wyoming Gaming Commission offers a self-exclusion list, and the Wyoming Responsible Gaming Coalition is updating statewide research. Community leaders emphasized educating youth, reducing stigma, and advocating for policies prioritizing human impacts over industry profits.
Dig deeper
2025/02/18: US gambling addiction searches increase, according to new study
2025/01/16: Wyoming and Indiana introduce bills to legalize online casinos
2025/02/14: Opposition group says igaming could cost the US $1 trillion by 2028
2025/04/22: Philippines scrutinizes online gambling amid money laundering risks
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