Gambling Linked to Violence at Youth Sports Events

Gun violence at youth sports events, including peewee football games, is increasingly attributed to rampant gambling, according to Cincinnati City Councilman Scotty Johnson. During a recent joint meeting with Cincinnati Public Schools officials, Johnson highlighted that substantial bets—some reaching up to $5,000—have transformed these events into dangerous environments, leading to instances of theft, vandalism, and potentially gun violence.

Despite the alarming nature of these claims, Cincinnati police acknowledge the gambling but do not see it as a widespread phenomenon. Local officials are grappling with increased security costs, which have surged by 75%, making it difficult for youth leagues to afford police presence. As concerns grow around the influence of gambling on the behavior of attendees, Johnson urges the community to prioritize the safety of children, stating, “Stop betting on our children.”

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