Florida Gaming Control Commission dismantles illegal gambling operation
The operation led to the seizure of 265 illegal machines.
US.- The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) says it dismantled a multi-location illegal gambling operation with assistance from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) and Homeland Security Investigations. It seized 265 illegal gambling machines and more than $120,000 in illegal gambling proceeds.
During the Operation Silent Spin, authorities seized 155 illegal slot machines and approximately $78,483 from Spin City Arcade, 61 illegal slot machines and approximately $24,157 from an unnamed arcade, and 49 illegal slot machines and approximately $18,157 from Mike’s Arcade.
L. Carl Herold, director of Gaming Enforcement for the FGCC, said: “These illegal gambling businesses are not harmless storefront operations. They attract crime, generate illicit cash economies, and create serious public safety risks for surrounding communities.
“Operation Silent Spin sends a clear message: if you are operating illegal gambling in Florida, we are coming for your machines, your money, and your criminal enterprise. As illegal gambling activity continues to grow statewide, including in southwest Florida, the FGCC remains committed to aggressively dismantling these operations before they evolve into larger organised criminal networks.”
Julie Brown, chair of the FGCC, added: “Southwest Florida has seen one of the highest increases in illegal gambling activity in the state and is a prime location for our next enforcement squad. As these operations continue to spread, the Commission must ensure it has the personnel and regional presence necessary to investigate complaints quickly, support local law enforcement partners, and protect Florida communities through sustained enforcement efforts.”
In March, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced the results of a two-day sting operation targeting illegal gaming in Volusia, Brevard, Duval, and Flagler counties. The operation led to the seizure of 525 illegal machines and $190,000 in illicit proceeds at 39 locations.
