Chapin, January 16, 2026
James O. Helms, a 73-year-old resident of Chapin, was sentenced to five years of probation after pleading guilty to participating in a major illegal video poker operation that generated up to $100,000 per week. This operation, primarily based in Lexington County, showcased a complex gambling enterprise requiring extensive staffing and security measures. The investigation led by the United States Secret Service and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division sheds light on the ongoing challenges surrounding illegal gambling in the state.
Columbia
Chapin Man Sentenced in Federal Court for Role in Major Illegal Video Poker Operation
A Chapin resident, James O. Helms, 73, has been sentenced to five years of probation in federal court after pleading guilty to his involvement in a large-scale illegal video poker operation in Lexington County. This recent development concludes a federal investigation into a sophisticated gambling enterprise that, at its peak, generated significant illicit proceeds weekly.
The operation, characterized as a large-scale gambling organization, was capable of generating up to $100,000 per week in illegal revenue. An indictment in the case detailed that the business ran daily from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., requiring two shifts of workers to manage its extensive operations.
Details of the Plea and Sentencing
James O. Helms, a partner in the illicit venture, received his sentence in federal court in Columbia, South Carolina, on January 15, 2026. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to engage in an illegal gambling business. As part of his sentencing, United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon imposed five years of probation. The federal system does not include parole.
Helms’s codefendant, Fred McCary, 63, of Gaston, had previously been sentenced for his central role as a leader in the organization. McCary received a sentence of six months in federal prison, followed by six months of home confinement, and was required to forfeit $1 million in connection with the illegal operation. The illegal scheme was notably operated directly from McCary’s home and other properties he owned.
Scope of the Illegal Enterprise
The gambling operation in Lexington County was extensive, involving more than 25 “Pot O Gold” slot machines and various video gaming machines capable of playing games such as Shamrock Ts, Joker Poker, Keno, Deuces Wild, and Jacks or Better. These machines were central to the business’s ability to generate its substantial weekly income.
Evidence presented during the case revealed that McCary attracted customers through word-of-mouth. To maintain security and exclusivity, surveillance cameras were installed to identify individuals at the entrance, ensuring that only known and trusted persons were allowed to enter and play the illegal machines.
Investigation and Enforcement Efforts
The investigation into this large-scale illegal gambling business was a collaborative effort, primarily conducted by the United States Secret Service and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). The probe was initiated following a tip, which led to surveillance operations and the deployment of a confidential informant. The informant entered the gaming house on multiple occasions in 2023, participating in the illegal gambling activities, which provided critical evidence for the prosecution.
Law enforcement efforts continually target such illegal gambling activities across South Carolina. These operations are not only against the law but also siphon potential tax revenue that could support public services. Furthermore, they can foster an environment of non-compliance and are associated with increased social costs, placing a strain on community resources and impeding legitimate business growth.
The Legality of Video Poker in South Carolina
In South Carolina, video poker machines have been deemed illegal for more than two decades. The South Carolina Supreme Court effectively outlawed these devices in October 1999, with the ban becoming effective in July 2000. This State-level prohibition was implemented to curtail widespread unregulated gambling.
State law explicitly makes it illegal to keep, operate, or distribute unlicensed gambling machines within South Carolina. The definition of a gambling machine includes any gaming device where a player can receive cash payouts as a result of their play. Despite these clear laws, instances of illegal video poker operations continue to emerge, underscoring ongoing challenges in enforcement across the state.
The sentencing of James O. Helms and the prior sentencing of Fred McCary serve as a reminder of the federal and State-level commitment to combating illegal gambling activities and upholding the rule of law in South Carolina.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was James O. Helms sentenced for?
James O. Helms was sentenced to five years of probation after pleading guilty to conspiracy to engage in an illegal gambling business.
Who is James O. Helms?
James O. Helms, 73, is a resident of Chapin, South Carolina, who was a partner in a large-scale illegal video poker operation.
How much money did the illegal video poker operation generate?
The illegal video poker operation generated up to $100,000 per week.
Where was the illegal gambling operation located?
The illegal gambling operation was located in Lexington County, South Carolina, and was operated directly from codefendant Fred McCary’s home and other buildings on his property.
Is video poker legal in South Carolina?
No, video poker machines have been deemed illegal in South Carolina since the ban became effective in July 2000, outlawed by the South Carolina Supreme Court in October 1999.
What was the role of Fred McCary in this operation?
Fred McCary, 63, of Gaston, was identified as a leader in the organization and had previously been sentenced to six months in federal prison, six months of home confinement, and agreed to forfeit $1 million.
Which agencies investigated this case?
The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).
Key Features of the Illegal Video Poker Operation Case
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Defendant | James O. Helms, 73, of Chapin | Local |
| Guilty Plea | Conspiracy to engage in an illegal gambling business | Federal |
| Sentence for Helms | Five years of probation | Federal |
| Codefendant | Fred McCary, 63, of Gaston | Local |
| Sentence for McCary | Six months in federal prison, six months home confinement, $1 million forfeiture | Federal |
| Operational Location | Lexington County, South Carolina (McCary’s home and properties) | State-level |
| Weekly Revenue | Up to $100,000 | Local |
| Operating Hours | 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily, requiring two shifts of workers | Local |
| Types of Machines | Over 25 “Pot O Gold” slot machines and various video gaming machines | Local |
| Legal Status of Video Poker in SC | Illegal since July 2000 (State-level ban effective) | State-level |
| Investigating Agencies | United States Secret Service, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) | Federal/State-level |
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Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
