State investigators in Michigan have seized cash and 36 machines from a property in Delta Township, following an investigation into an alleged illegal gambling operation.
State authorities confiscated the equipment – which included computers used as slot-style machines, freestanding slot-style machines and table-mounted gaming machines – along with over $23,000 (£19,033/€21,611) in cash from Cozy Barcade at 3280 South Waverly Road in Delta Township.
The raid took place on February 16.
The seizure occurred after the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) received multiple anonymous tips about the alleged operation. A joint investigation was then launched by the Michigan Department of Attorney General and MGCB.
Cozy Barcade was served with search warrants in collaboration with the Eaton County Sheriff’s Department and Lansing Police Department.
Henry Williams, executive director of the MGCB, emphasized that illegal operations do not provide adequate player protection initiatives.
“Illegal gaming locations prey on vulnerable people and don’t offer the patron protections required for legal, regulated gaming,” said Williams.
“The MGCB will continue to work hard to protect Michigan communities from crime by eliminating illegal gambling. We appreciate the public’s help in identifying possible illegal gambling locations.”
Captain Rob Block from the Eaton County Office of the Sheriff said that this location has received several complaints, adding that the outcome of illegal gambling operations can be devastating.
“These establishments breed other types of crimes such as robberies, assaults and drug activity,” he said.