The Michigan Gaming Control Board has assisted the Michigan Department of Attorney General and Lansing Police Department investigators, after raids were initiated at a pair of alleged illegal gambling establishments.
This saw search warrants executed in two alleged storefront casinos in Lansing, the first of which was carried out on February 28 in the Logan Square Shopping Center before a second warrant on March 4 at 777 Games of Skill.
“The MGCB is committed to helping communities state-wide remove illegal gambling machines, and we are happy to support the Lansing Police Department in this investigation,” said Henry Williams, executive director, MGCB.
At Logan Square, there were 28 full-size slot machines, one virtual blackjack table and other casino-style games, with the machines, which came in at 62 in total, subsequently removed from the location.
At 777 Games of Skill there were reportedly 13 full-size slot machines and seven other gambling games. In total, 82 machines were removed along with $91,532 in suspected gambling proceeds as part of the two investigations.
“Partnerships in law enforcement are a large part of successful crime fighting. This investigation shows how the efforts of Lansing Police working with MGCB and the Attorney General bring success to a complex investigation,” said Lansing Police Chief Ellery Sosebee.
In October 2021, the Lansing Police Department contacted the MGCB seeking assistance in investigating alleged illegal gambling operations.
Police officials said several types of gambling machines were available for patrons to play at the pair of aforementioned locations.
“Unregulated, illegal gambling operations in Lansing invite crime into our neighbourhoods and business corridors,” explained Andy Schor, Lansing Mayor.
“We are doing all we can to identify these illegal establishments and shut them down permanently. I am thankful for the efforts of the Michigan Gaming Control Board, the Attorney General, and other state agencies in working with the Lansing Police Department to shut down these illegal operations and keep our residents safe.”
