Illegal Slot Machines Confiscated From Florida Gas Stations

The Florida Gaming Control Commission on Friday announced it arrested 10 people and confiscated 21 illegal gambling machines from gas stations in north Florida, including five in the Tallahassee area.

The Commission said a total of 10 gas stations were involved in the operation, which was assisted by the Tallahassee Police Department. One was in Jefferson County, one was in Wakulla County, and eight were in Leon County. More than $17,000 was seized from a total of 21 illegal gambling machines, including slot machines and coin pushers.

Ten arrests have been made so far, with additional arrests pending, the Commission said.

“Illegal gambling has a serious impact on Florida’s communities, and small businesses who choose to offer illegal slot machines to customers need to understand that they are breaking the law,” Lou Trombetta, Executive Director of the Florida Gaming Control Commission, said in a statement. “It is unlawful to offer slot machine gaming at any unlicensed facility in Florida, including bars, restaurants, gas stations, and illegal casinos. We want to help small businesses understand the law, as well as the implications of not following the law.”

In Florida, slot machines are legal only in eight licensed pari-mutuel facilities in Miami-Dade and Broward counties and at certain facilities operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, the Commission said. Gambling machines more broadly are only allowed in legal gaming facilities.

Any person who possesses a slot machine without a license is subject to a fine or civil penalty of up to $10,000 per machine, and those found guilty can have their occupational licenses, such as business permits or liquor licenses, suspended.

Story via TMX