NUMBERS RUNNERS Meaning and
Definition
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Numbers runners refer to individuals who are involved in an illegal gambling operation known as the numbers game. This illicit activity typically involves betting on a series of numbers, often associated with the outcome of a lottery, sweepstakes, or other similar game of chance. Numbers runners essentially act as intermediaries between the gamblers and the operators of the numbers game, collecting bets from individuals and ensuring that winnings are paid out accordingly.
These individuals are often part of organized crime networks or illicit gambling syndicates. They establish a network of clients who place their bets with them, usually on a daily basis. Numbers runners then deliver the bets to the central gambling operation and distribute the winnings to the winners, deducting a percentage as their commission. This commission varies but is typically a predetermined percentage of the wagered amount.
Numbers runners operate clandestinely, often relying on word-of-mouth communication to conduct their illegal activities. They may use coded language or symbols to communicate the bets and outcomes to ensure secrecy and avoid detection by law enforcement agencies. Due to the illicit nature of their work, numbers runners face legal consequences if apprehended, such as arrest, fines, and imprisonment.
In recent years, with the legalization of certain forms of gambling in various jurisdictions, numbers running has seen a decline. However, it continues to persist in underground markets and areas where gambling remains illegal, highlighting the ongoing challenge faced by law enforcement agencies in combating this form of illegal activity.
Common Misspellings for NUMBERS RUNNERS
- bumbers runners
- mumbers runners
- jumbers runners
- humbers runners
- nymbers runners
- nhmbers runners
- njmbers runners
- nimbers runners
- n8mbers runners
- n7mbers runners
- nunbers runners
- nukbers runners
- nujbers runners
- numvers runners
- numners runners
- numhers runners
- numgers runners
- numbwrs runners
- numbsrs runners
- numbdrs runners
Etymology of NUMBERS RUNNERS
The term "numbers runners" originated from the illegal gambling practice known as the "numbers game" or "policy game", which emerged in the United States during the early 20th century. This game involved individuals placing bets on a three-digit number, usually between 000 and 999, with the hope of winning a cash prize. The term "numbers runners" refers to the individuals who worked for the organized crime syndicates or independent gambling operators by collecting the bets and running them to a central location for processing.
The etymology of the word "numbers" in this context comes from the fact that players selected their bets based on numerical combinations they believed were lucky or significant to them. The term "runner" can be understood as someone who physically delivers the bets from the players to the gambling operators.
