The Hernando Board of County Commissioners debated the merits of targeting internet cafes in the county on May 25 as County Sheriff Al Nienhuis expressed his concerns over gambling. After an open discussion, commissioners decided not to pursue an ordinance to regulate simulated gambling devices and internet cafes.

The discussion was brought forward by Nienhuis, followed by a back-and-forth between commissioners and community members who sought to protect the internet cafes — places that residents feel encompass a sociable atmosphere that creates a strong community bond…

Nienhuis said, “We have been doing a lot of enforcement over the years, and have seen a pretty significant crime in there.”