button in SafariThe Innocence Center’s All in for Justice Charity Poker Tournament Returns to Jamul Casino
In 2025, the inaugural All in for Justice Charity Poker Tournament was held on October 2, which happens to be Wrongful Conviction Day, an internationally recognized day dedicated to raising awareness about the causes of wrongful convictions, the reforms needed to prevent them, and the profound personal, social, and emotional impact wrongful convictions have on innocent people and their families.
The Innocence Center (TIC) hosted the event at San Diego’s Jamul Casino Resort, which raised approximately $30,000. Now, they’re running it back on Friday, October 2, 2026.
“After the success of the inaugural tournament, we were thrilled when Jamul Casino Resort agreed to host us again for the second annual All in for Justice Charity Poker Tournament,” said TIC attorney Claudia Salinas. “This year, we want to build on what we started. The goal isn't simply to host another poker tournament. It's to continue creating a platform where the poker community and the broader community can learn about wrongful convictions, hear directly from people impacted by them, connect with the work of The Innocence Center, and help raise the resources necessary to change lives.”
Entry for this year’s tournament is $150, and players can register in advance here. Additionally, those interested in potential sponsorship, or poker-related brands willing to donate gear or prizes for our final-table winners, can reach out to [email protected] or 619-928-2856.
“That was probably the most meaningful part of the entire night for me,” added Salinas. “Seeing people who came together because they love poker leave knowing they had also helped fight for someone's freedom was incredibly special. It was a tangible example of what happens when you create a space where people can have fun, build community, and support a cause at the same time.”
Last Year’s Event
In 2025, TIC Executive Director Michael Semanchik welcomed everyone and shared the mission of The Innocence Center: to free wrongfully convicted people from prison, educate the public about the causes of wrongful conviction, and support exonerated and freed individuals restore their lives after release.
Semanchik also took a moment to recognize Richard and Laurie Brooks, who served as title sponsors of the inaugural event in memory of their brother, Steven Brooks, an avid poker player who had passed away.
A special trophy was awarded to the overall winner and had a particularly meaningful design. The swirl ribbon represented resilience, the upward fight toward exoneration, and the systemic change inspired by every freedom won.
Additionally, Salinas talked about the connection between poker and the courtroom. Both require careful observation, calculated risks, the ability to make decisions with incomplete information, and the willingness to adjust when new information changes the picture.
The intersection of poker and law was actually something Salinas talked about on The Grid Podcast with Jennifer Shahade.
“Last year, nearly 100 people sat down at a poker table and helped raise $30,000 to fight wrongful convictions," said Salinas. "This year, we’re hoping to double the number of attendees, and we need the help of everyone who believes in this work to spread the word. So, if you know a poker player, a lawyer, a business owner, a potential sponsor, or simply someone who cares about this cause, please share the event with them.”
Click here for more information on the upcoming charity poker event.
