Florida gaming regulator seizes 231 illegal gambling machines in Lake County

The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) carried out a
multi-location enforcement operation on January 8 that resulted in the
seizure of 231 illegal gambling machines and over $157,000 in illegal gambling
proceeds in Lake County.

Complaints and intelligence gathering led Florida investigators to the Lake County sites. The searches were conducted under the operational name Calvin Coolidge, with warrants served at three locations identified as unlawful gambling houses in Umatilla and Leesburg.

“These enforcement actions demonstrate our commitment to protecting Florida communities and preserving the integrity of the state’s gaming laws,” FGCC Executive Director Alana Zimmer said. “Illegal gambling operations undermine lawful businesses and exploit patrons. FGCC will continue to work proactively with law enforcement partners to shut them down.”

At the House of Treasure, 37826 FL-19 in Umatilla, the FGCC partnered with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, which served as the lead agency, according to the commission.

Investigators seized 56 illegal gambling machines, including slot machines and fish tables, and recovered $75,619 in currency from the machines, the FGCC said. The sheriff’s office issued three Notices to Appear for possession of slot machines and keeping a gambling house.

FGCC agents also executed search warrants at two locations in Leesburg, resulting in the seizure of 175 illegal gambling machines and $82,218 combined.

At Hot Seats, 25327 US Highway 27, Unit 202, agents seized 77 illegal gambling machines and $35,621 in suspected gambling proceeds. Two Notices to Appear were issued for possession of slot machines and keeping a gambling house.

At The Hub, 3805 West Main Street in Leesburg, agents seized 98 illegal gambling machines and $46,597 in currency. Two additional Notices to Appear were issued for the same offenses.

The commission said gambling machines are permitted only in legal gaming facilities, and legal slot machines are available in eight licensed pari-mutuel facilities in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, along with certain facilities operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

“It is against the law to offer slot machine gaming or any unauthorized gambling at any unlicensed facility in Florida,” FGCC said.