Florida Gaming Control Commission shuts 10 illegal casinos
The regulator has seized nearly 100 illegal slot machines.
US.- The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) has taken enforcement action against illegal gambling operations at 10 locations in South and Central Florida. Agents seized nearly 100 illegal slot machines and more than $60,000.
The Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office, Deland Police Department, Daytona Beach Police Department, Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, Dade City Police Department, and Pasco County Sheriff’s Office took part in the operations. Seven Notices to Appear have been issued for operators, including charges of Possession of Slot Machines, Keeping of a Gambling House, and Juvenile Possession of Illegal Drugs. Pending investigations cases may result in further charges.
At a venue in Daytona Beach, agents seized 33 illegal slot machines and more than $8,500 cash. In Dade City, authorities seized 24 machines and more than $33,000, and in DeLand 14 illegal slot machines and more than $8,000.
The FGCC noted that slot machines are permitted only in licensed gaming facilities, which ensure player protections, generate state revenue and uphold game integrity. “Anyone found possessing illegal slot machines faces criminal charges and may incur administrative fines of up to $10,000 per machine”, it stated.
Florida Gaming Control Commission Acting executive director Ross Marshman commented: “The Commission is proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with our law enforcement partners as we collaboratively tackle illegal gaming throughout our state. Slot machine gaming is only legal in a handful of places across the state – folks can check out our website to see the map of those authorized locations. Communities and business owners should be wary of any establishment operating these types of gaming devices outside those authorized locations.”
In March, the FGCC and Leon County Sheriff’s Office shut three illegal casinos in the Tallahassee area in an operation dubbed Operation Westside.
