Atlantic City Mayor Faces Indictment for Child Endangerment

Marty Small Sr., the mayor of Atlantic City, and his wife, La’Quetta Small, who is the superintendent of the city’s public schools, have both been indicted on charges related to child endangerment. The charges stem from accusations of mistreating their teenage daughter. On September 17, 2024, a New Jersey grand jury indicted the couple. Along with the child endangerment charges, Mayor Small faces additional allegations of assault and making terroristic threats.

Abuse Allegations and Legal Defense

The incidents in question reportedly occurred between December 2023 and January 2024. According to The New York Times, during this period, the couple allegedly abused their 15-year-old daughter. Prosecutors have provided specific details about the alleged abuse, which included a January 13, 2024, incident where Mayor Small allegedly struck his daughter with a broom, causing her to lose consciousness. In another event, he reportedly knocked her down and threatened further violence.

La’Quetta Small also faces allegations of physically abusing their daughter. Prosecutors claim that she punched the girl in the chest, leaving visible marks. In another instance, she allegedly pulled her daughter by the hair and struck her with a belt. Despite these serious accusations, the Smalls’ legal team has strongly denied the charges. Edwin Jacobs, the couple’s lawyer, maintains that they are innocent and argues that the allegations are unrelated to Mayor Small’s role as a public official. He has emphasized that this is a private family matter and not an issue of misconduct in office. Additionally, Jacobs stated that Mayor Small has no intention of resigning from his position.

Impact on Atlantic City’s Political Scene

This case has generated considerable attention, especially given its potential impact on Atlantic City’s political landscape. Mayor Small, a Democrat, took office in 2019 after the previous mayor resigned amid corruption charges. He was elected to a full term in 2022 and has since been a prominent figure in local politics, recognized for his efforts to revitalize the city.

The charges against the Smalls follow the recent arrest of Constance Days-Chapman, the principal of Atlantic City High School. Days-Chapman faces accusations of failing to report signs of abuse, despite reportedly being informed by the Smalls’ daughter about the situation. Days-Chapman, who is known to have a close relationship with the Smalls, has denied the charges, and her lawyer has indicated that she plans to fight them in court.

The Smalls are expected to appear in court for their arraignment soon. If convicted, they could face severe consequences. In New Jersey, child endangerment carries a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison, meaning the Smalls may face a lengthy prison term if found guilty.

About Atlantic City

Atlantic City, located on the New Jersey coast, has a rich history as a premier gambling destination in the United States. Since the legalization of casino gambling in 1976, the city has become synonymous with gaming and entertainment, attracting millions of visitors each year. With iconic boardwalks, sandy beaches, and a bustling nightlife, Atlantic City offers a unique blend of recreational activities beyond just gambling. The city has faced challenges in recent years due to increased competition from other states and changing consumer preferences, but it remains a significant player in the East Coast gaming market.

The gambling industry in Atlantic City has undergone significant transformation, particularly with the introduction of online gaming and sports betting. This diversification has allowed the city to adapt to the evolving preferences of gamblers, offering a range of options from traditional casino games to innovative online platforms. While Atlantic City has embraced new trends, it still retains a classic charm with its historic casinos, such as the Borgata and Caesars, which attract both high rollers and casual players. The city’s focus on tourism and entertainment also helps it stand out as a destination that combines gaming with leisure activities like dining, shopping, and live performances.

In contrast, Las Vegas, often referred to as the gambling capital of the world, presents a different gaming landscape. Known for its extravagant resorts and endless entertainment options, Las Vegas thrives on a larger-than-life experience that draws millions of visitors annually. While both destinations offer gambling, Las Vegas benefits from a broader range of attractions, including world-class shows, celebrity chefs, and high-end shopping. Additionally, Las Vegas has a more robust infrastructure to support large-scale events and conventions, making it a dominant force in the global gaming industry. Despite their differences, both Atlantic City and Las Vegas continue to evolve, each carving out its unique identity in the ever-changing world of gambling.

Lucky Block: A Fresh Face in Crypto Casino and Sports Betting

Lucky Block made its debut in the competitive crypto casino and sports betting arena at the end of 2022, targeting the growing community of cryptocurrency enthusiasts. This platform allows players to easily engage in sports betting and casino games with just a straightforward registration and quick verification process. With a focus on cryptocurrency transactions, users can dive into the action without any hassle.

Game Variety and Betting Options

What sets Lucky Block apart is its impressive library, featuring over 2,700 games, including a diverse range of sports betting opportunities. New users are greeted with a generous 200% matched deposit bonus and free spins to enhance their initial gaming experience. The platform accommodates various cryptocurrencies for deposits, ensuring a smooth and efficient betting experience for its users.

Key Features of Lucky Block

Lucky Block has quickly gained traction within the crypto gaming community for several reasons. Firstly, it’s backed by established crypto and NFT projects, adding credibility to the platform. Its user-friendly design makes navigation a breeze for both novices and seasoned players alike. Quick withdrawals without hidden fees are another major benefit, appealing to crypto users who value instant access to their funds. Players can also enjoy provably fair games like Aviator and Mines, along with an array of slots, table games, eSports, and live casino options. The platform allows users to try games in demo mode, providing a risk-free way to explore before wagering real money.

Why Choose Lucky Block?

In a crowded market, Lucky Block stands out by allowing direct bets with cryptocurrencies, unlike many other platforms that only allow crypto as a balance. Its vast game selection caters to everyone, from casual gamers to those seeking live dealer experiences. Transparency is a significant advantage, as Lucky Block clearly displays the house edge for each game, enabling players to make informed choices. As a non-GamStop casino, it offers a wide range of games and attractive promotions, including generous welcome packages for new and returning players.

Expansive Game Library

Lucky Block’s game collection features over 2,700 titles, ensuring a diverse selection for every type of player. Whether you prefer slots, progressive jackpots, or live dealer games, there’s plenty to explore. Standout categories include classic and modern slots with exciting bonus features, progressive jackpots that offer substantial payouts, and live dealer games that recreate the atmosphere of a real casino from the comfort of home.

Innovative Partnerships

Enhancing user experience, Lucky Block has formed partnerships with Telegram and WalletConnect, bolstering security and convenience. Users can sign up quickly through Telegram, bypassing lengthy registration processes. With over 700 million users, this option is familiar and straightforward, requiring only a mobile number. WalletConnect adds another layer of security, allowing users to link their Web3 wallets directly, facilitating smooth and anonymous transactions.

Exciting Promotions Await

Despite being new to the scene, Lucky Block has attracted attention with its appealing promotions. One standout offer is the 200% matched deposit bonus for newcomers, along with free spins. To unlock rewards, players only need to meet minimal wagering requirements. Additionally, depositing a minimum amount can also yield free spins, adding extra value to the gaming experience.

Simplified Banking Options

Lucky Block simplifies banking with multiple payment methods, including credit cards, bank transfers, and popular e-wallets like Skrill and Neteller. This variety streamlines the deposit process, enabling players to fund their accounts quickly and start enjoying their favorite games.

Commitment to Security

Lucky Block prioritizes security, operating under a license from the Curacao Gaming Authority to ensure fair play and safe transactions. Its connection to the broader Lucky Block cryptocurrency project enhances its credibility, positioning it as a secure option for crypto-based gambling.

Explore the exciting world of crypto gaming by visiting Lucky Block today and see all that the platform has to offer!