Operation Bad Odds led to 28 suspects getting arrested and 48 illegal gambling machines being confiscated in Central Florida. Some suspects are in the country illegally.
Polk County Sheriff’s undercover detectives conducted an investigation into those who possess and operate illegal gambling machines in stores throughout the Central Florida county during “Operation Bad Odds,” resulting in the 28 arrests and the confiscating of 48 illegal gambling machines. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office was assisted in local efforts by State of Florida Gaming Control Commission and the Auburndale Police Department due to two of the establishments being within their city (the others were in the unincorporated areas of the county).
The investigation began with a tip regarding gambling machines at A-1 Discount Beverage and Discount & Deli, both on Pilaklakaha Avenue in Auburndale. Undercover detectives went to both places and found the machines concealed in back rooms. Detectives placed bets and won money – the winnings were given to them by the store clerks, and the money was handed over concealed in bankers’ bags, according to law enforcement.
During the investigation, 11 stores were identified, and search warrants were served at all 11 stores; a 12th location was identified during the serving of a search warrant. From the 12 locations, 28 total people were arrested, 48 gambling machines and two drink coolers were confiscated, and two firearms and $100,971 in U.S. currency were seized. Five suspects are in the country illegally…