Virginia § 54.1-834 - Prohibited activities; penalties
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 54.1-834 — Prohibited activities; penalties, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 54.1-834. Prohibited activities; penalties
A. No betting or wagering shall be permitted at an event or exhibition bout before, during, or after the event in the building where the event is held.
B. No person shall participate in a sham or fake boxing or martial arts contest. The Department shall have the authority to order, without a hearing, the person controlling the purse to hold the distribution to contestants, promoters, and trainers pending a public hearing by the Department. The Department shall, simultaneously with the issuance of such order to retain the share or purse, institute proceedings for a hearing to determine whether a sham or fake boxing or martial arts contest has occurred.
C. It shall be a Class 1 misdemeanor for any person to violate this section or any statute or regulation governing the persons or activities regulated pursuant to this chapter.
D. The third or any subsequent conviction for violating any provision of this section during a 36-month period shall constitute a Class 6 felony.
1998, c. 895; 2015, cc. 216, 264; 2016, c. 756; 2025, cc. 95, 111.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 54.1-834
What does Code of Virginia § 54.1-834 cover?
Section 54.1-834 ("Prohibited activities; penalties") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 54.1-834?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 54.1-834" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 54.1-834 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.