Summary
- Recently, the dedicated officers from the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office successfully carried out a bold operation targeting illegal gambling.
- During the operation, authorities confiscated over 100 slot machines and a significant stash of cash.
- Authorities detained two individuals who had been living in the country without legal permission.
In a bold move against illegal gambling in Florida, two undocumented immigrants found themselves behind bars. Late last week, the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office unveiled details of an extensive sting operation that led to the confiscation of over 100 slot machines.
117 slot machines were seized during a raid
After months of meticulous investigation into suspected illegal gambling in Sarasota County, law enforcement made their decisive move, raiding a venue with a shadowy reputation. Armed with a search warrant, officers descended upon the Magic Arcade at 5624 Swift Road, uncovering a trove of 117 slot machines destined for seizure. Within the dim confines of the arcade, authorities also discovered and confiscated a significant but undisclosed amount of cash, a concrete testament to the unlawful activities taking place under its roof. Sheriff's officers, working alongside agents from the Florida Gaming Control Commission, made it clear that these enforcement actions were in direct response to community complaints. Our residents' voices have been heard, the Sheriff emphasized. We are committed to cleansing our neighborhoods of these illicit gambling operations, and our actions today are a testament to that commitment. Addressing the arrests, Sheriff Hoffman further stated, The individuals taken into custody not only violated state gambling laws but also breached immigration regulations. Through a steadfast partnership with ICE, we ensure that they face the full weight of accountability.
Two men, residing in the country illegally, were arrested and charged
In a bold raid, police apprehended two men believed to be behind an illegal gambling operation. The men, aged 28 and 30, are now facing serious charges, including operating an illicit gambling house and unlawfully possessing slot machines. Alarmingly, authorities found that both individuals were living in the United States on revoked visas. They are currently detained at the Sarasota County Correctional Facility. As the investigation unfolds, the Sheriff's Office is working closely with Homeland Security Investigations to address the immigration violations. This operation underscores the successful collaboration between various units of the SCSO, including Intelligence and Tactical Units, Special Investigations Section, Criminal Investigations Section, Patrol, and Crime Scene Unit, teamed up with HSI and the Florida Gaming Control Commission.
