Florida Turns Up Crack Down on Illegal Gambling Operations
Florida law enforcement is ramping up efforts to combat illegal gambling activities across the state as despite vigilant enforcement of the law, illegal operations remain widespread. For instance, recently, an illegal gambling operation near Orlando was uncovered by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:Authorities raided the site and seized $48,200 in cash from gambling activities involving 125 illegal slot machines. The raid led to the arrest of three individuals who were allegedly involved in the venue’s daily operations and each has been charged with a misdemeanor.
Larger Sting Operations Target Gambling Networks
This Orlando-area raid is just one example of Florida law enforcement’s efforts. A larger investigation, named “Fish & Chips,” was conducted in recent weeks by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. The operation targeted 10 suspected gambling venues tied to an illegal network.
Police seized 263 gambling machines, $2.5 million in cash, luxury vehicles valued at $1.7 million, and additional assets worth $1.2 million while twelve people were arrested during the raids.
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Several Raids in Recent Months
Florida’s gambling laws largely limit betting activities to tribal casinos and the recently launched Hard Rock Bet mobile app. However, as the recent raids demonstrate, illegal operations continue to flourish.
In December 2024, law enforcement executed one of the largest busts of the year in Volusia and Brevard Counties. Acting on earlier tips, police raided five illegal casinos, confiscating more than 500 gambling machines and $845,000 in cash.
Back in October, a separate raid in Indian River County uncovered 68 illegal slot machines and $37,719 in cash. Authorities have said that their success is due to tips from citizens and undercover investigations.
Amid the raids, Florida is working to expand its responsible gambling resources and is seeking a vendor to oversee the state’s problem gambling program.
RELATED TOPICS: Regulation
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