General

United States v. Robert Speeden

1 D.C. 5351 Cranch 535·United States District Court for the District of Columbia·1809

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Opinion

United States v. Robert Speeden. The game called “Equality,” is a “device” prohibited by the Act of Maryland, 1797, e. 110. The -words “ or other device,” are not so loose and vague as to be rejected. Indictment for keeping a gambling-device, called “ Equality,” under the Maryland law of 1797, c. 110. Mr. Laiv, for the defendant, prayed the Court to instruct the jury, that the defendant was not liable for the penalty under the act. The words “ or other device,” being too loose and vague, •are to be rejected. [MAJORITY — But the Court] But the Court refused; it not being a capital case, and the intention of the law being very clear and plain.