The Florida Gaming Control Commission and Leon County Sheriff’s Office recently conducted Operation Westside to shut down three illegal casinos in the Tallahassee area. The Florida Highway Patrol and the Department of Homeland Security also assisted.
Illegal slot machines and other illegal gambling machines, related equipment and cash were seized from each location. Five arrests also were made.
“While gambling is strictly regulated in Florida, illegal casinos continue to open and operate in our communities without regard for the law. Partnerships with law enforcement agencies at the local, state, and federal level are essential to ensure we keep Florida’s communities safe,” Florida Gaming Control Commission Acting Executive Director Ross Marshman said in a statement.
The Florida Gaming Control Commission stated that legal gaming establishments ensure player protections, generate state revenue and uphold game integrity. Those possessing illegal slot machines can face criminal charges and may incur administrative fines of up to $10,000 per machine. Other licenses and permits may also be suspended for violating Florida’s gambling laws.
“Partnering with the Florida Gaming Control Commission on Operation Westside has resulted in successfully shutting down three illegal casinos in our area, protecting our citizens from establishments that prey on their vulnerabilities and serve as breeding grounds for additional crimes,” Leon County Sheriff Walt McNeil said in a statement. “Collaborative law enforcement efforts, such as these, broaden our impact and strengthen our network.”
