News Summary
A joint operation by the Florida Gaming Control Commission and local police dismantled two illegal arcade operations in St. Petersburg. Authorities seized 59 illegal gambling machines and significant cash amounts, arresting several individuals. Law enforcement emphasized the importance of adhering to Florida’s gambling laws, which only permit licensed gaming establishments. These efforts aim to address community concerns and maintain the integrity of the regulated gaming industry.
St. Petersburg, Florida – A collaborative enforcement operation by the Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) and the St. Petersburg Police Department led to the dismantling of two illegal arcade operations on September 16. The successful crackdown resulted in the seizure of a total of 59 illegal gambling machines and substantial cash amounts from both locations.
During the first raid at the Fun Arcade, located at 901 16th Street South, authorities confiscated 30 illegal slot machines and five “fish tables,” a type of gambling video game. In addition, approximately $15,654 in cash was seized from this location. Two men, Ghazwan Samaan and Anthony Jamel Abuead, were arrested at the scene. Both individuals face charges of one count each of Possession of Slot Machines and Keeping a Gambling House.
A second raid was executed at the 49th Street Arcade, located at 800 49th Street South. At this location, agents seized 29 illegal slot machines, one fish table, and $4,266 in cash. Angela D. Sutton was arrested and is also charged with possession of slot machines and maintaining a gambling house.
L. Carl Herold, Director of Gaming Enforcement, stated that these operations underscore Florida’s commitment to combat illegal gambling that threatens the integrity of the regulated gaming industry. It is crucial to note that only licensed facilities in Florida are permitted to operate slot machines and casinos.
St. Petersburg Police Chief Anthony Holloway praised the effective collaboration between law enforcement and state agencies, highlighting their dedication to community safety. Florida’s gambling laws specifically allow gambling only through licensed establishments, including eight pari-mutuel facilities in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, as well as six locations operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida.
The law enforcement actions not only emphasize the legal boundaries surrounding gambling in Florida but also address community concerns related to illegal gambling operations. Local representative Corey Givens Jr. noted that the operations assist in tackling community nuisances and crime that often accompany illegal gambling activities. Residents previously reported noise complaints and other illegal activities linked to both arcade locations, prompting action from local authorities.
This year, the St. Petersburg Police Department had received multiple calls regarding both arcades, further demonstrating ongoing community concern about their operations. It is also important to recognize that Florida law does not provide consumer protections for illegal gambling, frequently placing participants at a disadvantage in unregulated environments.
The enforcement of gambling regulations and the recent operations serve as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to maintain a safe and orderly environment within the community, protecting both residents and the integrity of the gaming industry in Florida.
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Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
