Man who died by suicide in Sussex was 'consumed' by gambling systems
A man's death by suicide was linked to a severe gambling addiction exacerbated by predatory, unlicensed gambling systems, prompting calls for regulatory reform.Summary
Oliver Long, 36, died by suicide in February 2024 after struggling with a severe gambling addiction. An inquest revealed that he turned to unlicensed overseas gambling sites after self-excluding from UK platforms, losing significant sums of money and ultimately losing his house, job, and relationship. His sister, Chloe Long, testified that “predatory” gambling systems “consumed his mind” and criticized the Gambling Commission and the Government for failing to protect vulnerable individuals. The coroner highlighted the risks of unlicensed gambling and ordered a Prevention of Future Deaths report. The Gambling Commission acknowledged the need for a joined-up approach to tackle unlicensed gambling and welcomed upcoming legislation granting them greater powers to combat illegal sites.
(Source：The Argus)