Colorado Authorities Raid Illegal Gambling Dens

The authorities in Pueblo, Colorado, have raided an illegal gambling venue, seizing thousands of dollars in cash and dozens of illegal gambling machines. The operation aligned with Mayor Heather Graham’s vow to crack down on crime in the city.

According to the announcement, the Pueblo Police Department executed search warrants on several local businesses believed to be involved in unlicensed gambling operations. According to the department, the businesses at the following addresses were raided:

• 320 West Northern Avenue
• 1103 North Elizabeth Street
• 1722 South Prairie Avenue
• 303 East Northern Avenue

As a result of the operation, the police seized approximately $20,000 dollars in cash, as well as 62 gambling machines. Many of the seized machines mimicked the ones usually found in legal gambling establishments across Colorado, according to the authorities.

In addition, 11 people were cited under the new city ordinance for the following:

• 11-1-902(a) Engaging In Gambling
• 11-1-902(b) Possession of A Gambling Device
• 11-1-902(c) Gambling Premise
• 11-1-903(a) Electronic Gambling

The Mayor Supported the Operation

According to the Pueblo Police, the illegal gambling establishments had led to a decrease in quality of life and an increase in crime. They brought the matter up to Mayor Graham who forwarded an ordinance that made the operation of the unlicensed establishments a municipal violation that risks court charges.

Passed on May 14 and subsequently signed into law by the mayor, the new law allowed the July 15 operation to take place.

The Pueblo Police Department added that its report is based on preliminary information available at the time of its writing. It added that the details of this incident may change as additional evidence pops up.

In other news, the San Juan police in Texas just seized a whopping 77 illegal gambling machines in a massive operation that saw authorities bust a gambling ring. Four individuals were also arrested in the process, according to the official report.

A month ago, the Florida police raided a convenience store in Hastings, believing it to be involved in illegal gambling and drug distribution. Around the same time, the Ohio authorities searched an internet café in Kettering and a residence in West Carrollton. They ended up arresting a suspect and charging them with operating a gambling house, possessing criminal tools and engaging in corrupt activity.