Chapin Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Engage in Illegal Gambling Business

COLUMBIA, S.C. — James O. Helms, 73, of Chapin, was sentenced to five years of probation after pleading guilty to conspiracy to engage in illegal gambling business.

Evidence presented to the court showed that Helms was a partner of a large-scale gambling organization in Lexington. The video poker operation at times made up to $100,000 per week, according to an indictment in the case. The operation was open from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily and necessitated two shifts of workers to oversee the business. The illegal scheme was operated directly from codefendant Fred McCary’s home and other buildings on his property.

United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Helms to five years of probation.  There is no parole in the federal system. McCary, 63, of Gaston, was previously sentenced to six months in prison and six months home confinement.

This case was investigated by United States Secret Service and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lothrop Morris is prosecuting the case.

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