TROIS-RIVIERES, QUE. -- An elderly compulsive gambler alleged to have demolished six video lottery terminals with an axe has been ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation to determine if he is fit to stand trial.

His lawyer argued yesterday that Andre Beaudoin, 75, did not have his wits about him when the incident occurred last January.

Beaudoin said after the hearing he would comply with the order and that his interest in playing video lottery terminals went from being fun to an obsession. He said he lost more than $70,000 over the years.

STOPPED PLAYING

Beaudoin is alleged to have carried out the attack on the machines on Jan. 7 after losing $600. He allegedly got an axe from his car trunk and went back into the bar where the machines were located and smashed them.

Beaudoin said he does not play VLTs now and has given up drinking.

He said he wants to speak out against the dangers of playing video lottery terminals.

More information on the negative effects of gambling