Authorities detained 23 people and seized approximately 500 to 600 gaming machines during a series of search warrants at suspected illegal gambling businesses across Bexar County early Wednesday, according to the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office.
The sheriff’s office said its Organized Crime Unit executed warrants at seven locations as part of an investigation it considers an organized criminal activity case. At least 13 of the people detained are expected to be booked into jail on various charges, including felony drug possession, outstanding felony warrants and engaging in criminal activity.
The businesses were operating under the same umbrella using the name “777,” according to Sheriff Salazar.
Salazar said the businesses used a scheme involving prizes to get around restrictions on gambling payouts. When a customer wins, the operation cannot pay more than 10 times the amount wagered. Instead, customers may receive items such as Pokémon or sports trading cards. Salazar said a business that buys sports and trading cards is conveniently located next door to the gambling operation.
