CHARLOTTE, NC — The launch of sports betting is expected to bring millions of dollars in tax revenue to the state, but gambling experts say it could also lead to a spike in crime.

“What we know is that over 50 percent of people seeking help from gambling will admit to having committed a gambling related crime,” Dr. Michelle Malkin said. 

Dr. Michelle Malkin with East Carolina University’s Gambling Research and Policy Initiative said  as more people begin using online sports betting platforms we could see an increase in gambling related crimes. 

“They’re actually burying themselves deeper and deeper into debt  and at some point they run out of those legal avenues to money.” 

 Malkin said people struggling with gambling addiction may commit crimes to get money to continue gambling or to pay off their debts.

“Those kinds of crimes are actually very common and they tend to be against the people that trust us. So it tends to be against family members and  employers because you have to have access to money,” 

While the state has allocated $2 million toward treating problem gambling in North Carolina, Malkin said it may not be enough. 

“It’s not enough to even come close to the need that we have here in the state,” Malkin said. 

 She recommends education on gambling addiction. 

“To identify the signs when they or somebody they love may be going down a bad path.” 

 As well as the legislature  increasing  outreach and treatment.

“So as the legislature continues to think about more legalization which isn’t necessarily a bad thing they have to also think of that responsibility.”