Florida regulators double illegal gambling seizures in 2025

Illegal gambling operators in Florida faced expanded enforcement pressure in 2025 after the Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) more than doubled seizures of cash and slot machines compared with the previous year.

FGCC reported seizing $14,474,336 in illegal gambling funds and confiscating 6,725 illegal slot machines during enforcement actions in 2025. The totals exceeded 2024 results, when regulators seized $7,110,613 and 1,287 illegal slot machines tied to unlawful gaming operations.

The commission said the enforcement actions targeted illegal casinos operating outside Florida’s regulated gaming system. Officials cited increased oversight activity during the year and coordination with multiple law enforcement agencies across the state.

“I thank Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Florida Legislature for their ongoing support of the Florida Gaming Control Commission,” said FGCC Executive Director Alana Zimmer. “Their actions strengthen Florida’s gambling laws and help protect our communities. FGCC has been working diligently to halt illegal gambling through enforcement actions across the state, demonstrating the dedication of FGCC’s law enforcement officers.”

In January 2025, FGCC officials, prosecutors, and sheriffs testified before state lawmakers, requesting additional authority to deter illegal gaming. Law enforcement officials said enforcement actions often involved repeat offenders, citing penalties that relied primarily on fines.

Lawmakers later approved SB 2500, which was signed into law by Ron DeSantis. The FGCC said the legislation provided additional tools for enforcement during 2025.

The commission reported expanded cooperation with law enforcement partners during the year, including 29 new memoranda of understanding with local, state, and federal agencies. The agreements supported joint investigations and enforcement actions against illegal gambling operations.

Several enforcement actions conducted in 2025 were widely publicized and involved cooperation with dozens of local agencies, according to the FGCC.

The FGCC said slot machines used in illegal casinos are not tested or regulated by the state, leaving players without assurances of fair play, accurate payouts, or basic consumer protections. The agency also said illegal operators avoid reporting and paying required taxes, reducing revenue for the state and local governments.

Under Florida law, slot machines are permitted only in licensed gaming facilities. Legal slot machines operate at eight licensed pari-mutuel facilities in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, as well as at certain facilities operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Offering slot machine gaming or unauthorized gambling at unlicensed locations is prohibited statewide.

The FGCC said enforcement efforts will continue in line with its mandate to regulate authorized gaming activity and pursue unlawful operations across Florida.