Two illegal gambling operations in Tavares were shut down last week in a joint operation by the Florida Gaming Control Commission and the Tavares Police Department.
Agents seized 125 illegal gambling machines and over $62,000 in cash from the two establishments, resulting in two arrests.
“We are grateful for the collaboration with Chief Coursey and her outstanding team,” stated Florida Gaming Control Commission Acting Executive Director Ross Marshman. “Illegal casinos continue to be a concern in Florida’s communities, and we are glad to shut the doors on these two criminal enterprises.”
READ: Florida Gaming Control Commission Cracks Down On Illegal Online Gambling Operations
The illegal casinos targeted in the operation were:
- Jungle Hut: Located at 324 E. Burleigh Boulevard, this establishment housed 71 illegal slot machines and six illegal fish tables. Agents seized $31,887 in cash and made one arrest on charges of Possession of Slot Machines and Keeping a Gambling House.
- Lucky Arcade: Located at 508 S. Duncan Drive, this location had 47 illegal slot machines and one illegal fish table. Agents seized $30,164.61 in cash and made one arrest, also on charges of Possession of Slot Machines and Keeping a Gambling House.
Under Florida law, slot machines are only permitted in licensed gaming facilities, which include pari-mutuel facilities in Miami-Dade and Broward counties and Seminole Tribe of Florida establishments. Operating unauthorized gambling machines at any other location is illegal.
The Florida Gaming Control Commission is responsible for regulating and enforcing all aspects of legal gaming in the state, as well as combatting illegal gambling activities.
The public is encouraged to report any concerns about illegal gambling operations by visiting FLGaming.gov/File-a-Report, emailing Contact@FLGaming.gov, or calling 850-880-3433.
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