Michigan has seen yet more raids conducted at various sites across the state as the crackdown on illegal gambling operations continues via joint investigations.
This latest example saw investigators seize 56 gaming machines and more than $12,700 in alleged illegal gambling profits on September 28029 at Redford Township, Taylor and Allen Park gas stations and a Flint-area store.
The four raids were associated with several joint investigations led by the Michigan Department of Attorney General and the Michigan Gaming Control Board.
Investigations targeted alleged illegal gambling at three gas stations, which saw one slot-style gaming machine and two coin pushers removed. State officials collected $3,295 from inside the latter and $290 from the former.
Furthermore, a Mundy Township storefront allegedly offered customers opportunities to play casino-style games in conjunction with a purchase of overpriced snacks and merchandise.
Customers were said to receive so-called ‘promotional’ game play by making purchases and received cash awards for winning.
A total of $9,141 in alleged gaming-related cash, as well as 53 machines, were seized when search warrants were executed.
“We’ve seen an increasing number of complaints about alleged illegal gambling, and we appreciate the help received from citizens who call our tip line at 888-314-2682,” said Henry Williams, Michigan Gaming Control Board executive director.
“The MGCB works closely with local law enforcement agencies to investigate alleged illegal gambling locations, which do not provide the protections associated with legal, regulated gaming and can bring unwanted crime to neighbourhoods.”
Last month, four individuals were sentenced in Michigan for their roles in running an illegal gambling operation, following a joint investigation by the Department of Attorney General and the Gaming Control Board.
On Thursday 18 August, 11 video slot machines and 56 computers, that were reportedly used for illegal gambling, were confiscated by investigators, as well as $10,141 in suspected proceeds and gift cards on a pair of locations in the city of Flint.
