FGCC Leads Another Bust Against Illegal Gambling, Seizes 69 Machines

The Florida Gaming Control Commission and the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office continue to work together as they move against the illegal land-based gambling sector in the state.

FGCC and Police Bust Two Illegal Locations in Florida

In the latest operation, which saw the regulatory and enforcement agencies collaborate, a total of 69 unlicensed slot machines were seized. Raids were conducted on Wednesday, May 27, across two locations in Sarasota County. 

The sting, which was called Operation Early Morning, saw two search warrants executed at 4235 Clark Road in Sarasota and at Bingo Palace at 2029 South Tamiami Trail in Venice. 

As a result, investigators were able to seize 30 slot machines in Sarasota and 39 slot machines at the Venice venue, along with $62,376 recovered in cash. This is the latest move against the illegal gambling sector, which has continued to proliferate in Florida despite the regulatory pushback and active law enforcement. 

Commenting on the latest operations, Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) Chair Julie Brown once again emphasized the importance of counteracting the sector and going after such illegal venues. 

“Illegal gambling operations are not harmless businesses. They operate outside the law, avoid oversight, create opportunities for crime, and take money from Florida communities. 

This operation reflects our continued commitment to working with law enforcement partners to protect Floridians and enforce the law wherever illegal gambling activity is found,” Brown added, commenting on the latest operation.

FGCC director of gaming enforcement L. Carl Herold supported his colleague. He hailed a recent decision by Florida lawmakers to introduce two new enforcement units and strengthen the regulator’s response to such illegal venues came just in time to address the surging sprawl of such businesses. 

New Divisions Set to Help FGCC Respond to Illegal Sprawl in Sarasota

She specifically spoke of the new Sarasota County-based enforcement unit to help respond more quickly, while building local partnerships and pressure bad actors. 

“Illegal casinos are spreading into communities across Florida, and they require a focused, coordinated law enforcement response,” Herold noted. 

“We are proud to work alongside Florida’s Division of Gaming Enforcement and their effort to address illegal gaming operations and adult arcades,” added Sarasota Sheriff Kurt. A Hoffan concluded, commenting on the operation that took place.