A Westmoreland County today found a man who organized Texas Hold 'em poker tournaments guilty of illegal gambling, rejecting his arguments that the game isn't gambling because it requires a high degree of skill.

Lawrence R. Burns, 65, of Derry Township, ran the tournaments several times a week in Seward and Adamsburg. He was charged following a state police investigation in 2007.

"I think the commonwealth presented evidence that poker is essentially a game of gambling," said Westmoreland District Attorney John Peck.

"There is enormous chance involved. I think that's why people play, because they have the chance to win."

Mr. Burns said he was disappointed and plans to appeal.

David Millstein, his defense attorney, had argued during the 2 1/2 day trial that his client was not guilty of illegal gambling because he said Texas Hold 'em is predominated by skill, not chance.

The jury took little time to decide, however. It got the case at noon today following closing arguments and was ready with a verdict by 2:20 p.m.

Mr. Peck said he did not think that Mr. Burns' circumstances call for jail time. That will be decided by Judge Richard McCormick. Sentencing has not been scheduled.