Last week, Michigan investigators confiscated 11 video slot machines and 56 computers allegedly used for illegal gambling in raids of two Flint businesses.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) said investigators also seized $10,141 in suspected gambling proceeds and gift cards from the Aug. 18 raids on The Cellular Vault on Corunna Road and Cellular Bank on Saginaw Street. Investigators confiscated machines, equipment, and business records in the raids, which were part of a joint investigation of the businesses.
“The MGCB received several anonymous tips regarding both Flint locations, and we thank the public for their help in rooting out possible illegal gambling activities,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said in a press release. “Patrons at alleged storefront casinos do not have access to the consumer protections required for legal, regulated gambling. The operations also can draw other types of crime to the surrounding neighborhoods.”
Raid follows similar seizures in April
The Cellular Vault contained 39 computers used to play slot-style games, while Cellular Bank housed 11 stand-alone slot machines similar to those seen in a commercial casino and 13 computers used to play slot-style games. Cellular Bank also provided patrons a card with a PIN allowing them to wager online while offsite.
In April, investigators removed 100 devices used for gambling and $29,200 in suspected gambling profits from two other alleged storefront casinos: The State Road Spot in Davison and The Bristol Spot in Burton. Both locations remain under investigation.
The MGCB has a fact sheet on unregulated machines used for illegal gambling, and Michigan citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious or illegal gambling by calling the MGCB’s 24-hour anonymous tip line, 888-314-2682.
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