Sweepstakes Casino Enforcer in Florida Helps Take Down Illegal Slot Operators in State

Law enforcement seized some 125 illegal gambling machines as part of a series of busts throughout the state of Florida that also resulted in two arrests.

The joint probe involved the Tavares Police Department and the Florida Gaming Control Commission. In addition, investigators seized more than $62,000 in cash.

The two illegal casinos were both operating within the city limits of the Central Florida city located just north of Orlando.  These establishments included the Jungle Hut on Burleigh Boulevard and Lucky Arcade at South Duncan Drive.

We are grateful for the collaboration with (Tavares Police) Chief Sarah Coursey and her outstanding team,” said 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.”

Marshman has been lobbying for increased authority and commitment by the state to help crack down on a rise in illegal gaming operations.

The FGCC recently sent out cease and desist letters to both sweepstakes casinos and offshore sportsbook operators.

"Gaming, both land-based and online, is strictly regulated in Florida,” said Marshman in a statement at the time. "For example, when it comes to slot machine gaming, counting the eight legal, state-licensed slot machine businesses, and the six tribal gaming locations currently operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, there are only 14 legal slot machine businesses in Florida. The only online sportsbook operating lawfully in Florida is the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s Hard Rock Bet. Anyone in Florida betting on the Big Game needs to know this. Bettor beware.”

The compact the Seminoles entered into with the state requires the Gaming Control Commission to protect the tribe's interests, which this week's actions show they are being effective.