- Operation Westside led to the shutdown of several illegal gambling operations in Southwest Tallahassee, with 401 gambling machines and over $92,000 in cash seized.
- Authorities emphasized that these illegal casinos often target vulnerable communities, causing significant harm.
- All owners and managers involved were arrested and charged, with some individuals now being held by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
BROADCAST TRANSCRIPT
On Friday morning, the Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) revealed the findings of Operation Westside, a recent crackdown on illegal internet cafes operating in the region.
According to Leon County Sheriff Walter McNeil, these illegal businesses have been causing widespread harm to the community, particularly in lower-income areas.
"They have created all types of chaos in our community," McNeil stated.
He further elaborated that these illegal operations serve as magnets for unwanted crime, taking advantage of vulnerable individuals and contributing to violence.
"People are taken advantage of, shootings take place, families are divided," McNeil said.
The three internet cafes targeted in the operation had been operating for several months, and it was local residents who voiced their concerns, submitting complaints to the Florida Gaming Control Commission. Their efforts were instrumental in prompting the investigation and subsequent shutdown of these businesses.
Carl Herold, the Director of Gaming Enforcement at the Florida Gaming Control Commission, spoke about the ongoing issue in the area. Herold noted that concerns about illegal internet cafes in Havana first surfaced about a year ago.
"Continue to report these individuals and bad locations," Herold urged the public.
One of the establishments in Havana was the site of a tragic shooting that claimed the life of local pastor Lewis Butler in 2023.
When asked about the time it typically takes to investigate and shut down such operations, Herold explained that the process varies based on several factors.
"The length of time that is required to investigate these is kind of dependent upon the business structure, how certain things, I wouldn't want to divulge on the investigative techniques, but every one of them is unique," he said.
As a result of the operation, all owners and store managers of the seized establishments were arrested and charged with Keeping a Gambling House and Possession of Slot Machines. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement are now holding some individuals.
Authorities are encouraging the community to continue reporting illegal internet cafes to the Florida Gaming Control Commission, as they work to prevent further criminal activity in the area.
In addition, both the FGCC and the Leon County Sheriff's Office plan to collaborate with state leaders this legislative session to advocate for tougher penalties. Their goal is to upgrade the charges for owning and operating these illegal businesses from misdemeanors to felonies.
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