This week, a significant enforcement action in Florida has drawn attention to the state's crackdown on unlawful gambling establishments. A coordinated effort involving multiple agencies resulted in the removal of 230 slot machines and 23 fish tables from three separate locations.
Operation Details
Dubbed "Operation Funny Money," the raids targeted sites in Duval and Clay counties, including one on Jacksonville's Westside and two in Orange Park. The operation was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, IRS, and Florida Gaming Control Commission.
Carl Herold, Director of Law Enforcement for the Florida Gaming Control Commission, commented on the widespread nature of these operations. "What we have found is it doesn't matter, highly populated or lightly populated, these locations find a way into these communities all across the state of Florida," Herold said.
Herold emphasized that this week's seizures represent only a small portion of Florida's illegal gambling economy. Since July of this year, state authorities have shut down approximately 80 operations, leading to 65 arrests and the confiscation of $11 million along with more than 3,300 illegal slot machines.
Community Impact and Dangers
"People are beginning to realize, 'Hey that's not some friendly family business, it's an illegal location that's ripping off people' and they're beginning to report that," Herold noted. He also warned that illegal gambling sites often serve as hubs for more serious crimes.
"We have been told of upwards of five murders across the state directly or indirectly related to these illegal casinos," said Herold. He explained that patrons at these unauthorized venues face significant risks, as they lack the consumer protections found in regulated casinos.
"These folks that are running these illegal casinos don't have entertainment in their mind," Herold stated. "All they're thinking about is profits and they're taking advantage of everyone that walks in there."
Reporting and Tips
Herold encouraged residents to report suspected illegal gambling activities through the Florida Gaming Control Commission's website. He mentioned that the commission has received over 3,300 tips from across the state in the past year alone.
