Conducted in Akron, the operation saw law enforcement raid seven businesses across the city, seizing nearly 160 gambling devices
A large number of illegal gambling machines and close to $100,000 in cash were seized recently during raids in Akron, Ohio.
Seven Locations Raided by Police
The actions of law enforcement follow a months-long investigation into illegal gambling in the city. A total of seven warrants were executed by police officers in Akron, WKYC reported Thursday. The raids were conducted by the Akron Police Department, Summit County Sheriff’s Office and agents with the Ohio Investigative Unit.
Seven suspected illegal gambling parlors were subjected to searches by law enforcement. The raids on Arlington Street, Brittain Road and East Tallmadge Avenue follow a seven-month-long investigation into suspected unlawful gambling.
The recent raids saw agents seize a sum of $93,188. Moreover, searching the seven suspected illegal venues, law enforcement uncovered and seized a total of 157 gambling machines. Overall, two liquor stores and five venues operating as gambling dens were searched, the recent media report reveals citing information from the Ohio Investigative Unit.
Documents, Guns and Drugs Seized During the Raids
Police did not confirm whether or not arrests have been made in relation to the illegal gambling locations. However, the employees and owners of the two locations with liquor licenses received criminal summonses. Reportedly, they are facing charges related to operating a gambling house and gambling. On the other hand, the other five businesses that allegedly offered illegal gambling are yet to face charges.
In addition to the large number of gambling machines and cash, police seized documents believed to be relevant to the unlawful gambling operations. They also found illegal substances, including marijuana and other drugs, along with two firearms. Law enforcement did not confirm whether or not certain individuals are charged with possession of guns and drugs.
Under the existing laws in Ohio, operating a gambling house is recognized as a first-degree misdemeanor. This applies to first-time offenders whereas a secondary offense would be recognized as a felony in the fifth degree.
In September, an Ohio man was sentenced to prison due to illegal gambling and tax evasion. The man was sent for seven years behind bars, followed by three years of supervised release. Moreover, the person who pleaded guilty to operating illegal gambling, tax evasion and money laundering, was ordered to pay close to $3 million in restitution.
Despite the actions of law enforcement across the country, illegal gambling remains a challenge. While illegal gambling dens can easily be taken down by local law enforcement, unlicensed iGaming and betting websites are difficult to combat.
