Posted on: March 25, 2024, 09:04h.
Last updated on: March 25, 2024, 09:04h.
Several suspects were arrested and evidence was seized recently nationwide in four separate searches of unlicensed gaming dens.
In Flint, Mich., authorities raided a storefront business. It led to the arrests of Linos Antonio Kas-Mikha, 52, of Grand Blanc, Mich., and Robert Jamerson, 55, of Saginaw, Mich.
Each was charged with running a gambling operation without a license, two counts of using computers to commit a crime, and a count of maintaining a gambling house for gain, according to MLive.com, a regional news outlet.
Both men appeared in court last month and their cases are currently pending.
The two operated 11 slots at Cellular Bank, officials said. Authorities also found 13 computers which were used to operate the games.
Other properties linked to the men have been raided by authorities previously as part of investigations into illegal gambling.
Holding those who choose to break the law and run alleged illegal gambling operations accountable for their actions is paramount to ensuring the safety and integrity of our neighborhoods,” Michigan Gaming Control Board Executive Director Henry Williams recently said in a statement following the latest raid.
“By enforcing strict regulations and prosecuting offenders, we strive to maintain a gaming environment that is not only enjoyable, but also adheres to the principles of fairness, legality, and community safety.”
$30K Seized in California
Across the country in Modesto, California, authorities recently raided an illegal gambling operation.
The court-ordered search led authorities to locate and seize over $30K in cash and 17 gambling machines. Two unnamed men were charged.
The gambling operation was shut down.
The raid was linked to investigation of illegal gambling at a convenience store and other local businesses, as well as at a Modesto residence.
Ohio Gambling Den
In addition, an internet cafe in Dayton, Ohio was raided recently for alleged illegal gambling.
Local police searched Lucky Day Internet Cafe following an undercover operation there, according to Ohio TV station WHIO.
Police seized several gambling machines and an unspecified amount of cash from the business. Criminal charges are likely.
$31K Seized, Arrests in Texas
In addition, in Corpus Christi, Texas, authorities recently seized about $31K in cash from an illegal gambling operation at the El Patron Sweepstakes Gameroom, according to Texas TV station KRIS.
Police also seized 90 items associated with gambling.
Andria Thompson, 34, was charged with gambling promotion, possession of a gambling device, keeping a gambling place, and engaging in organized criminal activity. Some 23 others were issued citations. They were identified as customers of the operation.
Local police explained in a statement that game rooms which provide cash rewards can be investigated. Operators of the businesses can be arrested, as can customers.
