Police in Halifax have concluded their investigation into a significant lottery violation at a local Legion branch, determining that the incident does not constitute a criminal matter. The case involved the vice-president of the Vimy Legion, who was accused of claiming over $24,000 in winnings from a Chase the Ace event he helped organize.
The Incident at Vimy Legion
The situation came to light in November 2025, centering on a popular fundraising game known as Chase the Ace. According to reports, the vice-president of the Halifax-based Vimy Legion branch was directly involved in organizing the lottery event. The individual is alleged to have subsequently claimed a winning prize totaling more than $24,000 from the very same fundraiser.
Police Investigation and Findings
Following an internal discovery, the matter was brought to the attention of the Halifax Regional Police. Law enforcement officials launched a review of the circumstances surrounding the alleged violation. After a thorough examination, authorities announced on November 20, 2025, that their investigation determined the actions did not meet the threshold for criminal charges.
While the police have clarified that no criminal laws were broken, the incident raises important questions about internal controls and ethical guidelines for charitable gaming events. Legion branches across Nova Scotia often rely on such fundraisers to support their community programs and veteran services.
Community Impact and Next Steps
The Vimy Legion, located in Halifax, is a well-established community hub. The revelation of the lottery violation and the subsequent police investigation have undoubtedly impacted the organization's standing within the local community. Despite the police finding of no criminality, the incident may prompt a review of policies governing volunteer conduct and financial oversight within charitable organizations.
The case highlights the delicate balance community groups must maintain when managing fundraising activities, especially those involving games of chance. While the police investigation is closed from a criminal standpoint, the internal ramifications for the Legion branch and its leadership remain to be fully seen.
