Florida gaming regulators, law enforcement shut down illegal casinos

Wednesday, December 11, 2024 8:27 PM
Photo:  Florida Gaming Control Commission
  • Rege Behe, CDC Gaming

Agents from the Florida Gaming Control Commission recently collaborated with law enforcement partners in Brevard and Volusia counties to shut down five illegal casinos and seize illegal gambling machines from two business establishments.

“The cooperative relationships developed between the Florida Gaming Control Commission and our partner law enforcement agencies are essential to fulfill our mission, and these efforts are making an impact,” Florida Gaming Control Commission Acting Executive Director Ross Marshman said in a statement. “Through innovative strategies, enhanced resources and collaboration, these partnerships reflect our dedication to fostering trust and accountability while effectively addressing public safety concerns related to illicit gambling locations.”

FGCC agents assisted the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office in executing search warrants for five illegal casinos throughout the county. More than 500 illegal gambling machines, related equipment and more than $845,000 was seized. A 2022 Chevy Silverado, which was used to transport cash from the illegal casinos, also was  seized. Criminal arrests are pending.

The five facilities:

  • 190 Malabar Road, Suite 121, Palm Bay
  • 4940 Stack Boulevard, Suite D1-D2, Melbourne
  • 780 Apollo Boulevard, Melbourne
  • 1882 North Wickham Road, Melbourne
  • 950 North Courtenay Parkway, Merritt Island

FGCC agents and the Port Orange Police Department also addressed community concerns received by both agencies regarding two independently owned businesses. More than $6,000 and 19 illegal slot and gaming machines were seized. Three arrests were made for charges of operating illegal gambling establishments and illegal possession of slot machines and gaming devices.

The two establishments are the Stop & Go Convenience Store, 5687 South Ridgewood Avenue, Port Orange, and Mark and Jill’s Village Tavern, 5263 South Nova Road Port Orange.

Rege Behe is lead contributor to CDC Gaming. He can be reached at rbehe@cdcgaming.com. Please follow @RegeBehe_exPTR on Twitter.