Florida Authorities Launch Crackdown on Illegal Slot Machines.
The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC), in collaboration with the Cape Coral Police Department, has executed a significant enforcement operation. These has resulted to the seize of 60 illegal slot machines from a business masquerading as a legitimate bingo venue.
Operation Going Downtown Targets Unlawful Gaming
This action, part of “Operation Going Downtown,” took place on Santa Barbara Boulevard in Cape Coral, at a location known as Uptown Bingo. Authorities confiscated 60 machines that were being used under the pretense of bingo games,. Despite Florida law explicitly prohibiting the operation of bingo and instant bingo on electronic devices that display games of chance, including slot reels.
FGCC Supports Lawful Gaming Practices
“Bingo is fun, and the FGCC supports lawful play,” said FGCC commissioner Peter Cuderman. “Unfortunately, criminals prey on Floridians by using a bingo theme on slot machines and falsely claiming these games are legal. Our FGCC agents are here to serve Floridians and protect them from unscrupulous operators.”
In Florida, individuals aged 18 or older are permitted to play bingo, including instant bingo, when using paper cards. The law restricts the offering of traditional bingo to approved organizations such as charitable, non-profit, veterans’ groups, and certain residential communities.
“These illegal operations are more than just unauthorized games , they are unlawful businesses that undermine legitimate charitable gaming and can create opportunities for broader criminal activity,” stated Cape Coral Police Chief Anthony Sizemore. “Our partnership with the Florida Gaming Control Commission allows us to effectively investigate these operations and protect the residents of Cape Coral.”
Read Also: Florida Police Officer in Hot Water After Allegedly Aiding Suspect in Casino Bomb Plot
Florida Law Defines Slot Machines and Restrictions
Florida law defines any electronic machine or device that may entitle a player to a prize. Whether through skill, chance, or any other unpredictable outcome as a slot machine. This includes electronic devices that simulate bingo or games through depictions of slot reels or other games of chance. Slot machines are only allowed at eight licensed locations in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties, also at Seminole Tribe facilities.
