36 Machines, $23K In Cash Seized From Alleged Illegal Gambling Operation In Delta Township

The ongoing effort to suppress illegal gambling in Michigan persists.

An alleged Delta Township gambling operation had its equipment and cash seized by investigators, as announced by the Michigan Gaming Control Board on Wednesday.

The recent raid received assistance from anonymous tips and is a part of the MGCB’s ongoing initiatives to combat unregulated gambling nationwide.

What was seized in Delta Township illegal gambling raid?

On February 16, the most recent raid occurred at Cozy Barcade, an alleged illegal gaming operation situated at 3280 S. Waverly Road, Suite C-2 in Delta Township.

After a joint investigation conducted by the Michigan Department of Attorney General and MGCB, search warrants were executed at the establishment with support from the Eaton County Sheriff’s Department and Lansing Police Department.

A combined total of 36 machines were seized by state investigators. The seizure included:

• Computers employed as slot-style gaming machines
• Freestanding slot-style gaming machines
• Table-mounted gaming machines
• A coin pusher machine
• Over $23,000 in cash that is related.

After receiving numerous anonymous tips regarding the whereabouts, the MGCB commenced its initial investigation.

“In a press release, Captain Rob Block of the Eaton County Office of the Sheriff stated that numerous complaints have been received from residents in the vicinity regarding this location. He emphasized that these establishments serve as a catalyst for various criminal activities, including robberies, assaults, and drug-related incidents.”

Michigan authorities confiscated 373 illegal gambling machines in 2024

The MGCB’s ongoing efforts to halt illegal gaming in Michigan are evident in this recent raid.

In 2024, the collaborative efforts of the Michigan Liquor Commission, state law enforcement, and MGCB investigations resulted in the seizure of 373 illicit gaming machines within the state. Additionally, this operation led to the prosecution and conviction of 17 individuals involved in criminal activities.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) provides consumers with a fact sheet to assist in recognizing unregulated gaming machines within the state. Individuals can report any suspected illegal gambling activities by reaching out to the MGCB via phone at 1-888-314-2682 or through email at [email protected]

Henry Williams, executive director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board, stated that illegal gaming locations take advantage of vulnerable individuals and fail to provide the necessary safeguards that legal and regulated gaming establishments offer. He emphasized the commitment of the MGCB to safeguard Michigan communities by eradicating illegal gambling activities. Williams also expressed gratitude towards the public for their assistance in identifying potential illegal gambling locations.

In February, a former Flint police chief entered a plea of no contest to charges associated with engaging in illegal gambling in 2018.

Over $500 billion illegally wagered in U.S. last year

The latest update from the American Gaming Association reveals that a staggering $510 billion was illegally wagered within the United States in 2024.

The gambling industry suffered a loss of $44.2 billion in gaming revenue due to the presence of illegal wagers. Additionally, state and local communities across the country were deprived of $13.3 billion in tax revenue.

Legal gambling in Michigan generated over $679 million in tax revenue, which is utilized to support various sectors including K-12 schools, first responders, and other state funds.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel expressed gratitude towards the Michigan Gaming Control Board for their efforts in halting illegal gambling activities that divert funds from our communities, funds that are essential for supporting our state and schools.

The AGA is actively collaborating with Congress and state attorneys general to jointly combat and eradicate illegal gambling practices.