Michigan Gaming Control Board announces sentences of two for running an illegal casino

Monday, January 13, 2025 3:30 PM
  • Rege Behe, CDC Gaming

The Michigan Gaming Control Board Monday announced the sentencing of two people involved in operating Cellular Bank, a storefront casino previously operating in Flint.

Linos Antonio Kas-Mikha, 52, of Grand Blanc and Robert Jamerson, 55, of Saginaw were sentenced by Judge Elizabeth A. Kelly in the 7th Circuit Court in Genesee County after their guilty pleas on October 15 to one count of conducting a gambling operation without a license.

Kas-Mikha was sentenced to 12 months of probation and ordered to pay $1,448 in fines, fees and court costs. Jamerson was sentenced of 12 months of probation and granted three days of jail credit.

As part of the guilty pleas, three additional felony charges were dismissed against both, including two counts of using computers to commit a crime and one count of maintaining a gambling house for profit.

“The Michigan Gaming Control Board is dedicated to upholding the integrity of gaming in our state,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said in a statement. “The sentencing of these two defendants for their involvement in running an illegal gambling operation at Cellular Bank sends a clear message that unlicensed gambling enterprises will not be tolerated. We also want to extend our sincere thanks to the Attorney General’s office, whose support and collaboration were instrumental in this investigation and prosecution, ensuring a successful outcome.”

The investigation began with a joint effort by the Michigan Department of Attorney General and the MGCB. In February, felony gambling warrants were issued for Kas-Mikha and Jamerson after authorities discovered 11 slot machines similar to those found in commercial casinos and 13 computers used for slot-style games at the Cellular Bank. The business also provided patrons with cards that included PINs, allowing them to place wagers online from offsite locations including their homes.

“This underscores the importance of protecting our community from unlawful activities that harm our neighborhoods and exploit vulnerable residents,” Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley said. “Flint is committed to supporting efforts that uphold the rule of law and safeguard the well-being of our citizens. I commend the Michigan Gaming Control Board and the Attorney General’s Office for their diligent work in ensuring justice is served.”

 

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