Michigan investigator seizes 50 cash machines from Flint storefront casino

Authorities confiscated 48 computers used in slot-type games and two game consoles allegedly used in illegal gambling, and seized an additional $13,260 in proceeds suspected of gambling at the site.

"Storefront casinos and illegal gambling pose significant social and economic risks to the community," said Henry Williams, executive director of MGCB. "Because they can often attract customers from legitimate businesses that attract criminal activity and positively contribute to the local economy, it is essential to stop this type of operations to prevent customers from falling victim to fraudulent schemes and protect them from potential harm."

Sites like this were previously issued a search warrant by the Michigan Attorney General's Office on August 18, 2022, when MGCB investigated suspected illegal games at The Cellular Vault, a business that was there at the time. The raid resulted in 43 computers used for gambling and $2,572.48 in gains and gambling revenues. And as is known locally, "The Vault" has been terminated.

Since then, however, MGCB has received anonymous tip-offs from worried Michigan citizens that a storefront casino has reopened in the same location under the new business name Flint Arcade, where customers have been offered the opportunity to play on slot-style game consoles. Michigan's criminal law broadly prohibits all types of gambling, except as authorized by law, and could have potential consequences for Michigan businesses to operate illegal game consoles, including criminal charges and/or fines. 경마사이트프로

Williams added, "The MGCB is committed to working with appropriate authorities to create a safer and more transparent gaming environment for Michigan citizens." "The agency is committed to helping communities across the state remove game consoles used for gambling from stores, gas stations and convenience stores, and encourages residents to call us with tips."

The agency should release fact sheets on its website about Michigan's law-unregulated machines, give law-breaking companies the opportunity to comply and confiscate equipment and money collected from illegal operations before authorities intervene.